Jamie Carragher is revelling in ’s chaotic summer so far, criticising Erik ten Hag’s strategy in the transfer market and mocking ’s exit request.
While the rest of their rivals have all strengthened, the Red Devils have yet to make a signing this summer and still have not managed to agree a fee for Frenkie de Jong despite weeks of negotiations with .
The Dutchman is one of several current or former players Ten Hag is targeting as he looks to install his playing style at Old Trafford – though it is an approach that has prompted criticism.
There are suggestions that United’s scouting scope is far too limited, with Ten Hag almost exclusively going after players he already knows, such as De Jong, Jurrien Timber, Antony and Lisandro Martinez.
Carragher added his voice to the criticism, slamming United’s transfer strategy and writing: ‘Ten Hag has played them hasn’t he.’
The Liverpudlian’s day got even better when news broke of Ronaldo’s transfer request, with Carragher over the Portuguese star’s potential departure – even though he believes it could be a blessing in disguise.
‘Ronaldo did exactly what I thought he would do, score goals but make the team worse,’ the Sky Sports pundit tweeted.
‘The transfer request also kills the idea he turned down Manchester City because of his love for Man United.
‘Also, why now? Has Ten Hag told him he is not part of his plans or will play a limited role?? Surely the end of last season was the right time to tell the club.’
Carragher’s comments prompted a rebuttal from fellow pundit Gary Neville, who replied: ‘I get it, you’re full of yourself, but he can turn down City for United because he likes them more and still want to leave this summer.
‘He left before but still loved the club. Enjoy Saturday night and your short period of success.’
Carragher had to have the last word though, responding: ‘City didn’t want him you [clown]. And you’re the same fella who kept saying it was like Elvis had arrived in Manchester! Elvis has left the building!’
Ronaldo has already been linked with Roma, old club Sporting Lisbon, Bayern Munich and even Chelsea, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner believed to be keen to stay in Europe and join a club where he has a genuine chance of adding to his title collection.
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