Cristiano Ronaldo cannot play high-energy football because he is 37 years old, according to former England striker Darren Bent.
Former Aston Villa and England striker Darren Bent has stated that Cristiano Ronaldo does not fit into Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s style of play.
Ronaldo played 90 minutes in a 4-0 loss to Brentford but was substituted in the 86th minute of Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Bent questioned the 37-year-old veteran’s suitability for the Dutchman’s high-energy, high-octane, intense pressing system on Talksport.
‘There were notable standout performers, the two center halves defended well, the front three,’ he said. And I understand why people say, “How can you not play Ronaldo in this team?”
‘I believe that if (Erik) ten Hag wants to play that high-energy, high-pressing, all-guns-blazing (style), he cannot play Ronaldo. That is not a slight on Ronaldo; you are discussing one of the greatest players in history.
‘But he’s 37 years old in that system.’ Consider (Anthony) Elanga and (Marcus) Rashford’s energy. Rashford is at his best during this period. Stop complicating things by dropping off and attempting to prove to everyone that you’re a good player by linking play…
‘No. His best quality is his quickness. When he starts running in behind on a regular basis, defenders have nightmares. For his goal (against Liverpool), he was at his best with a fantastic finish and composure.’
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