Cristiano Ronaldo still has major influence on Manchester United star despite exit

Cristiano Ronaldo, despite his fallout with Erik ten Hag, reportedly continues to play a significant role for Manchester United's Diogo Dalot.

Ronaldo, who left the club in December 2022 after a candid interview with Piers Morgan, moved to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. However, he still guides Dalot's career from afar.

The Athletic reports that the two are in touch and hope to make a big impact for Portugal in this summer's Euros. A source told The Athletic: "Cristiano Ronaldo had a big impact on him. Diogo was in awe of Cristiano, but in a good way of how to be a top footballer and they're now friends."

READ MORE: The new Ronaldo? Impressive numbers behind Hojlund's turnaround

READ MORE: Ferdinand says two United figures changed his mind about Dalot

Ronaldo has praised Dalot's abilities before, including during his chat with Morgan. He said: "If you ask me what I see in Man United, Diogo Dalot is an example.

"He is young, but he is very, very professional. And I'm not doubting that he's going to have longevity in football because he's young, he's smart, intelligent and is very professional."

Dalot has also spoken fondly of Ronaldo for the guidance he provided both at Old Trafford and during their time together playing for Portugal. Speaking to ESPN, the defender said: "I mean, he helped me a lot outside of the pitch.

"Whether it's the way he conducts himself every single day, I think the discipline that he has and he had through all his career brought me a lot. It was a joy for me to play with him and to be his teammate. He helped me a lot.

"I will keep some things to myself but the general [thing] is that his discipline is what impressed me the most. Because you can be consistent, but you can be consistent in a