The Manchester United player Anthony Elanga has acknowledged that he "understands" Cristiano Ronaldo's criticism of the team's young players.

Elanga said he still sees the 37-year-old Portugal international as an idol despite the criticism.

The Portugal captain will not return to Old Trafford again from all indications after slamming Manchester United’s owners, their hierarchy and manager Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo said during his recent interview with ace journalist Piers Morgan that Manchester United’s young stars don’t respect him or listen to him.

He said the young stars live in a different era and behave like 12-year-olds with a different mentality from what it used to be when he was younger.

Elanga told Swedish outlet Aftonbladet: “Cristiano talks about young players in general." We are a new generation. "I am always 100% focused on what I am doing, but I can understand what he is saying.”

On his relationship with Ronaldo, Elanga added: “He means a lot to me." He has helped me a lot, not only on the pitch but off it as well.

“He is an inspiration, not only to me but to all the young players at United." "Sometimes it’s just me and him at the gym.”

Asked if his opinion of Ronaldo has changed since his explosive interview, Elanga responded, “No, not so much." because when I’m with him, he hasn’t changed. He is still Cristiano Ronaldo to me. "He has helped me a lot.”