Why Sir Alex Ferguson apologised to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer over Cristiano Ronaldo decision at Man Utd

Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted that Sir Alex Ferguson once phoned him to apologise for being critical about leaving Cristiano Ronaldo on the substitutes bench.

Ferguson played a key role in instigating Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford in August 2021, as revealed by the Manchester Evening News at the time, and he was the club's statement signing of what was a busy summer. The Portuguese star hit the ground running upon his return to M16, scoring five goals in his first five matches, including a debut double against Newcastle United.

However, Solskjaer made the decision to name the now-Al-Nassr forward on the bench for a 1-1 draw at home to Everton at the start of October, just days after he had scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner against Villarreal in the Champions League. As a result of United failing to win, Solskjaer was questioned for starting the Portuguese international on the bench.

READ MORE: United vs Wolves LIVE

Solskjaer, who played under Ferguson for several years at Old Trafford, was, of course, sacked by United towards the end of November 2021, following a run of four defeats in five Premier League matches. Prior to his dismissal, in relation to his decision to bench Ronaldo against Everton, Solskjaer received criticism from Ferguson that was caught on camera and shared on social media.

The Norwegian has now admitted that Ferguson called him to say sorry for being critical, admitting that he is fully aware of the pressures and tough decisions that come with managing the Reds.

"That's the one time Sir Alex has ever apologised to me," Solskjaer said, as quoted by The Athletic. "He was caught on a video saying, 'You should always play your best players,' after Ronaldo