Former Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo has
admitted Manchester United lost their way under Louis van Gaal.
The Dutchman was officially sacked as manager on Monday
evening after long drawn out speculation around his future.
Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is expected to be
announced as Van Gaal's successor in the coming days.
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Ronaldo, who is preparing for Real Madrid's Champions League
final against Atletico Madrid on Saturday, has backed Mourinho to restore the
good times to Old Trafford.
Louis van Gaal delivered Manchester United's first major
trophy since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013, but the FA Cup triumph was not
enough to save the Dutchman's job.
“I hope Manchester United get back to being what they were
because it’s an impressive club but in the last years they lacked an identity a
bit," Ronaldo told Spanish TV station, La Sexta.
Ronaldo with Premier League
Cristiano Ronaldo won three Premier League titles at United
CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
“And it hurts me seeing United like that because it’s a club
that I carry in my heart."
Manchester United recorded their lowest tally for league
goals last season, and Van Gaal was a constant target for criticism from former
players and fans alike.
Mourinho's imminent arrival at Old Trafford has been held up
by ongoing negotiations with Chelsea over his image rights.
And Ronaldo gave his fellow Portuguese a ringing endorsement
ahead of his expected unveiling.
“He’s already signed, hasn’t he? I think it’s good. If it’s
something United wanted I think it’s good.
Ronaldo won three Premier League titles and one Champions
League in his six years at Manchester United.
The 31-year-old also enjoyed a fruitful spell under Mourinho
at Real Madrid, but ruled out a reunion with his former manager.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo played under Mourinho for three years at Real Madrid
“Right now, yes I am happy and I want to stay at this club.
I don’t see any other club that is better than Real Madrid."
Ronaldo is a slight injury concern for Saturday's Champions
League final after suffering under a heavy challenge in training on Wednesday.
Team mates tended to the striker as he lay prostrate on the
ground, but he was later able to walk unaided from the pitch.
