I d id not take Ronaldo reaction personally – Rangnick

MANCHESTER United interim boss Ralf Rangnick said Cristiano Ronaldo did not undermine his authority following the forward’s angry reaction to being substituted at Brentford in the Premier League on Wednesday.

The Portugal international did not look pleased after being taken off for Harry Maguire in the 71st minute as United secured a 3-1 win against the promoted side.

Speaking ahead of yesterday’s league fixture against West Ham United, Rangnick said: “I don’t blame him for that but obviously any manager would wish it shouldn’t be too emotional.

“And also in front of the TV cameras, I don’t think this will be for the benefit of anyone. It’s an emotional game and players are emotional and I didn’t take it personally at all.”

Rangnick said Ronaldo had been known to react poorly to being taken off.

“I didn’t at all see or interpret that he was challenging me,” he added. “This was not the first time – if you have a look at the moment when Sir Alex (Ferguson) replaced him or other coaches, his reaction was pretty similar.”

Ronaldo, who re-signed for United

from Juventus in the close season, complained of a neck problem following the win in midweek. But the Portuguese made Rangnick’s line-up against the Hammers yesterday.

A few weeks ago, Ronaldo was quoted as saying Rangnick needed to be given time to settle and instil his approach at United.