Manchester United's next manager once called Cristiano Ronaldo 'too old and too expensive' in what is a worrying sign for the star's future at Old Trafford

• Manchester United's soon-to-be new manager once called Cristiano Ronaldo "too old and too expensive."
• Ralf Rangnick made the comment when asked if he would sign Ronaldo for RB Leipzig in 2016.

Manchester United's soon-to-be new manager Ralf Rangnick once called Cristiano Ronaldo "too old and too expensive."

Rangnick is set to be named United manager on a six-month contract following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer earlier this month, according to BBC Sport.

The German coach, who has managed Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig, has a reputation across Europe for his strict management methods and organized and high-intensity style of play.

While manager of Leipzig in 2016, Rangnick was asked if signing either Ronaldo or Lionel Messi would help improve his team.

"It would be absurd to think that it could work with them here [Leipzig]," he told reporters, according to SportBible. "They are both too old and too expensive."

Ragnick's comments could be a worrying sign for Ronaldo's future at Old Trafford, despite being the club's star player in a difficult season.

Since returning to his former home in the summer, the 36-year-old forward has scored ten goals in just 14 games, including six in the Champions League.

The former England international Danny Mills has predicted that the pair won't see eye-to-eye when the German takes over as boss.

"It's going to be really interesting because Ralf Rangnick likes to control the whole football club," Mills told Football Insider.

"We saw what he built at RB Leipzig from the ground up. Control of coaching and recruitment was down to him. It's his way or the highway. It's going to be interesting to see how he deals with the dynamics with influential, big ego players.

"He loves to play the high-press. He loves to get the ball back as quickly as possible. How do you fit Cristiano Ronaldo into that system?

"Somebody is going to have to compromise. That hasn't really been Rangnick's way up to that point.

"We know Ronaldo is an unbelievable goalscorer, but if you're looking at what is best for the team, then it's going to be an interesting dynamic."