Cristiano Ronaldo issued a statement following an incident at Old Trafford which resulted in him being disciplined by Erik ten Hag.
During Manchester United’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night, Ronaldo was shown leaving the game early through the Stretford End tunnel. He left Old Trafford entirely before the full-time whistle was blown.
It has since been confirmed that Ten Hag asked the Portuguese international to be substituted in the match, which Ronaldo refused. He has started only two games this season; Brentford and Newcastle United.
Ten Hag has dealt with the incident by omitting Ronaldo from the United squad to face Chelsea on Saturday October 22, as well as training alone and away from his teammates.
Ronaldo has been removed from the United vs Chelsea team by Ten Hag. #mufc
— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) October 20, 2022
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Ronaldo addresses fans in an Instagram post
Since the news circulated, the 37-year-old has posted a statement on his Instagram account. He said: “As I have always done throughout my career, I try to live and play with respect towards my colleagues, my opponents and my coaches. That has not changed. I have not changed.
Cristiano Ronaldo on Instagram pic.twitter.com/5ERKWhsNip
— utdreport (@utdreport) October 20, 2022
He added: “I have always tried to set an example myself to the young people who grew up in all the teams I have represented. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible, and sometimes the heat of the moment gets the better of us.
“Right now, I feel like I have to keep working hard at Carrington, support my teammates and be ready for anything in any game. Giving in to pressure is not an option. never was. This is Manchester United, and together we must resist. Soon we will be together again.”