Jose Mourinho, the former manager of Manchester United, has weighed in on why he believes Cristiano Ronaldo’s second stint at the club ended on a sour note. According to Mourinho, Ronaldo’s exceptional talent and drive require minimal coaching in terms of motivation, ambition, and responsibility. 

Instead, tactical adjustments and allowing Ronaldo to feel happy are key to managing him effectively.

Mourinho emphasized that Ronaldo’s immense skill and self-motivation mean he doesn’t require extensive coaching. When asked if there was anything he could teach Ronaldo, Mourinho responded negatively, suggesting that Ronaldo’s abilities are already finely honed.

“I think you don’t coach (Cristiano),” Mourinho told Five via YouTube. “Motivation you don’t need to give him. Ambition, responsibility, you cannot give him, technically you cannot give.

“It’s just to give some tactical adjustments and let the guy be happy.”

Reflecting on his own experience managing Ronaldo at Real Madrid, Mourinho shared insights on how to handle a player of Ronaldo’s caliber. While Mourinho’s approach differed from that of Erik ten Hag, who managed Ronaldo during his second spell at Manchester United, it’s essential to recognize the context of each manager’s tenure and Ronaldo’s stage of career development.

Mourinho was then asked if there was anything he could teach him. He replied: “I don’t think so, he doesn’t need it.”

Mourinho’s comments underscore the unique challenges and opportunities associated with managing a player of Ronaldo’s stature and talent. While his methods may not have aligned with Ten Hag’s, Mourinho’s insight into handling high-profile personalities like Ronaldo offers valuable perspective on the complexities of football management at the highest level.