Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo dug a deeper hole after refusing to play during Manchester United’s win against Tottenham on Wednesday. The world watched the Portuguese international go through the tunnel and off the pitch before the final whistle. On Friday, manager Erik ten Hag confirmed that Ronaldo had refused to come on as a substitute.
The 37-year-old striker’s move forced ten Hag to leave his superstar out of this weekend’s Chelsea game. Now, Ronaldo is training with the Manchester United Under-21s.
When asked how the conversation between the two went, ten Hag stated that he was very clear about what he expected from his players. “The conversation is between Cristiano and myself,” ten Hag said. “The statement is clear. It’s also in the statement that he’s still an important part of the team.”
“I am the manager, I am responsible for the culture here. I have to set standards and values and I have to control them. We are in a team.”
It seems increasingly likely that Ronaldo’s days at United are numbered. A lot of rumors link the star with big clubs all over Europe. In the summer, those movements spread throughout the world. Based on the player’s form and his enjoyment of the game, Ronaldo clearly wants out of Old Trafford. January seems the most logical time, with former clubs Sporting and Juventus in the mix. However, would it be worth the aging striker’s headache?
Cristiano Ronaldo outburst has transfer rumors swirling
Other major European teams such as AC Milan, Napoli and Marseille have previously expressed interest. Now, the three took their names out of the hat for Ronaldo’s services. Aside from attitude issues, financial concerns are also detracting from teams.
Reports estimate that Ronaldo earns approximately $535,000 a week at United. Few clubs around the world could take on that type of contract. However, assuming both sides want to experiment to the end, a mutual agreement to cancel the massive contract could be on the cards. Arsenal and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had a similar development last season. It allowed the Gabon international to rediscover Barcelona form.
One possible way Ronaldo can attract bigger European clubs is to have a stellar World Cup. Portugal is currently ranked eighth in the world by FIFA and has a chance to go far in the tournament. A deep run in Qatar could possibly make more clubs interested in approaching Ronaldo.
If this is not the case, a possible move to Inter Miami could also work. Owner David Beckham is obviously close to Ronaldo. With the retirement of Gonzalo Higuain, Miami potentially has room for the Portuguese.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Pro Sports Images
