Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of Manchester United’s squad to play Chelsea after being disciplined by Erik ten Hag.
The 37-year-old will be training separately from the rest of United’s first-team squad for three days after leaving Old Trafford before Wednesday’s 2-0 Premier League win over Tottenham Hotspur.
The decision to punish Ronaldo is Ten Hag’s, with the United manager holding responsibility for disciplinary matters, and it is understood that he has the support of the club’s hierarchy. United say that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains an integral part of the squad.
Man United’s official statement
In a statement, United said: “Cristiano will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s game against Chelsea. The rest of the squad fully prepares for that fixture.”
Ronaldo abandoned his position in the Old Trafford home dugout in the 90th minute of United’s victory over Tottenham before stoppage time had been played and the final whistle had sounded, after being left out of the starting lineup and failing to come on.
Whether Ronaldo first refused Ten Hag’s directive to enter as a substitute before leaving has not been addressed by United. At that point, Ten Hag had only used three available five substitutes.
It is not the first time Ronaldo has left a game early under Ten Hag. After being replaced by Ten Hag at halftime of a preseason friendly match against Rayo Vallecano in July, the Portugal international exited Old Trafford midway through.
Man United statement: “Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s game against Chelsea. The rest of the squad is fully focused on preparing for that fixture.”
— Rob Dawson (@RobDawsonESPN) October 20, 2022
Cristiano Ronaldo responds to being dropped from the Man United squad
As a result of his theatrics during Manchester United’s 2-0 victory against Tottenham, Cristiano Ronaldo has responded to being left out of the team.
He wrote on Instagram: “I try to live and play respectfully toward my teammates, opponents, and coaches. As I’ve always done throughout my career. That hasn’t changed. I haven’t changed.”
“I’m the same person and professional I’ve been playing elite football for the last 20 years, and respect has always played a significant role in my decision-making process.”
“I started very young, and the older, more seasoned players’ examples were always significant to me. Later on, I’ve always tried to set the standard for the younger players. But that’s not always possible, and sometimes the heat of the moment gets the best of us.”
“At the moment, all I need to do is keep working hard in Carrington, help out my teammates, and be prepared for everything that may come up in a game.”
“There is no option to give in to the pressure. It was never. We must stand as one as Manchester United. We’ll get back together soon.”
"Giving in to the pressure is not an option. It never was. This is Manchester United, and united we must stand."
– Cristiano Ronaldo on Instagram pic.twitter.com/gx4MQhnwDC
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 20, 2022
Man United is considering letting Ronaldo leave in January
According to several reports, United is willing to accept the best offer for Ronaldo in January. This shocking incident might soon validate the Red Devils’ decision to drop the Portuguese legend.
After two disastrous losses at the beginning of the season, his planned summer escape hinted at potential future discontent. He is now cut off from the rest of the team, which has been winning games and performing well overall.
The club, Ten Hag, Ronaldo, and Jorge Mendes will likely have some very significant conversations about the player’s future. Because everyone knew he wanted to go in the summer, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
