Cristiano Ronaldo quit Manchester United under a cloud in 2022 but still continues to have an influence at his former club despite now representing Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo remains an influential figure for Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot - despite no longer being club team-mates.

The Portuguese forward quit the club in December 2022 following an outspoken interview with Piers Morgan. The remainder of his Red Devils contract was cancelled, which led to a record-breaking move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.

Despite Dalot and Ronaldo no longer sharing a dressing room, the latter is still attempting to guide the defender's career. According to The Athletic, the pair are still in contact and both hope to have a big influence for the Portuguese national team at this summer's Euros.

A source speaking to The Athletic said: "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."

Ronaldo 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."

Meanwhile, Dalot has also hailed Ronaldo and the advice that he gave him both at Old Trafford and when they've played together for Portugal. The defender told ESPN: "I mean, he helped me a lot outside of the pitch.

Cristiano Ronaldo mentored Diogo Dalot during his time at Manchester United ( Image:

"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 team-mate. 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 bad way, and he was disciplined and consistent in a good way. That's what I've learned the most from him."

Dalot, 24, has gone on to become a key player for Man United and Ten Hag. After a tricky first few seasons at the club following his arrival from Porto, he was sent out on loan to Italian giants AC Milan.

He has forced himself back into contention over recent seasons. The current campaign has arguably been his best at Old Trafford. Dalot has made 32 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils this term and has found the net twice.