Ronaldo: What United's young players need to succeed

In his recent episode of the TeamViewer Diaries series, our 2021/22 Player of the Year shared his thoughts on what emerging talents at United require to fulfil their potential.

Although he didn't come through the Academy at the club, Ronaldo first joined the Reds as an 18-year-old in 2003 and therefore understands the position that several of his younger colleagues are currently in as they embark on a successful Old Trafford career, just as he did nearly two decades ago.

“The new generation will be the new future for the club," he said. "I am in favour that we should give opportunities to the young generation because they will be the future.

“But, you have to help them as well to put it in the right spots.”

Ronaldo believes that for young Reds, making the step up to the Premier League can be daunting. While the 37-year-old backs our youngsters to succeed, he feels they can only do so if they are shown patience.

“The pressure is a lot, to play in the Premier League, which I believe is the most difficult league in the world by far,” he said. “And you have to give them time, you have to give them the opportunity and let them grow in a normal way, without pressure.

“But I think we should give opportunities to the young generation.”

The six-time Ballon d’Or winner has experienced much success during his illustrious career. From Champions League successes with both United and Real Madrid, to becoming FIFA's all-time top scorer in competitive matches, Ronaldo has a wealth of experience young players can draw upon.

The Portuguese icon wants to help the “new generation” with their development but maintains that “to achieve success you have to do it through sacrifice, hard work, ethic of work [and] dedication.

“If the kids ask me [for] advice, I will give my opinion and advice of course,” said Ronaldo. “Because I want to help.”