‘Demands the best’ – Cristiano Ronaldo’s future at Man Utd has been hinted at by new boss Erik ten Hag in a gushing 2017 interview

NEW Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag gave Cristiano Ronaldo a glowing account in an interview in 2017.

And his bubbly prospect could offer a clue as to CR7’s future at Old Trafford.

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The Dutchman will take charge at the end of this seasonreplaces interim boss Ralf Rangnick.

Ten Hag signed a contract until the summer of 2025 with an option for a further year.

The Ajax boss was described as “talented”. ronaldo for constantly “challenging the best of himself,” which has helped him stand out from the rest.

About the 37-year-old he may be set to work with, then-Utrecht manager Ten Hag has said Dutch football site: “Take Cristiano Ronaldo. His header skills, his jump, his timing, it takes 1000 hours of training and practice.

“For example with his free kicks and his kicking technique.

“He’s so talented, but he’s always demanding the best of himself. That is the difference.”

Ronaldo’s high standards are one of the reasons he’s able to compete in the Premier League well into his late 30s.

The Portugal international has scored two hat-tricks since he returned to Old Trafford from Juventus.

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And he has 21 goals this season in all competitions.

Whether Ten Hag considers Ronaldo part of his plans United is yet to be seen but it could indicate that the forward could be of use next season.

Reports in the Daily Star Earlier this month, Ten Hag claimed that Ronaldo’s age and luxury status mattered unsuitable for his long-term plan.

Man Utd’s status in the Champions League could also decide Ronaldo’s future and if Ten Hag can try to make it work.

The Red Devils are three points behind Arsenal in fourth place but the Gunners have a game in hand.

And United have two big games in their last five league games.

They will play fourth-placed rivals Arsenal on Saturday and ailing Chelsea on April 28.