Portugal’s exit from the Nations League this week rubber-stamped Cristiano Ronaldo’s worst start to a season since his arrival in the Premier League in 2003.
The former five-time Ballon D’or winner has seen more appearances off the bench than starts this season, and has only clocked up one goal — a penalty in Manchester United’s 2-0 Europa League win over Sheriff. Ronaldo’s underwhelming start to the season would be justification for critics to label the 37-year-old as finally on the decline. However, his competitive rival Lionel Messi came under similar scrutiny last season, with many claiming his slow start to life at Paris Saint Germaine marked the end of an illustrious career.
While both players are admittedly entering into the final stages of their playing careers, Messi has proved that form is temporary but class is permanent with 11 goal involvements in eight matches already this season.
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One factor that may have been crucial in Messi’s return to form and something Ronaldo can find hope in, is the Argentines involvement in a full pre-season with PSG this summer.
Time spent on the training ground working with new coach Christophe Galtier has allowed for the diminutive forward to develop the necessary chemistry between Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to play a vital role in the most dangerous attacking line in club football.
Ten Hag’s approach is intricate and requires a high level of concentration, with a pressing system built around high intensity and full understanding from all his players and can only be developed through long hours of repetition and practice.
Yet, amid frustration with United’s lack of signings and their performance last season,
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