Pranav Nair
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has no qualms about dropping Cristiano Ronaldo if required
According to ESPN, Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted that superstar Cristiano Ronaldo cannot be expected to play every game following his return to the club.
The 36-year-old made his second debut for the club in style, scoring two goals on his return to help down Newcastle United 4-1. It is clear that the veteran has a key role to play at the club this season.
It is fair to say that Ronaldo is a sure starter for United and is a shoo-in for their best first XI. But, at 36, he is not getting any younger and will need to be used wisely to keep him at his best. Solskjaer clearly recognizes this.
“It’s not impossible to leave him out.”
Solskjaer admits that it is up to him to best manage not only Ronaldo’s but also Greenwood’s minutes. The former is a veteran while the latter is still in his youth. It would be detrimental to either player and also to the team should they be burnt out or fatigued.
“He is 36. Mason is 19 so it’s the same, I have to manage his minutes and I have to manage a 36-year-old’s minutes as well.”
Despite his age, Ronaldo is a physical specimen who is at the height of his powers. An incredibly fit athlete, it is clear that the Portuguese ace takes care of himself off the field. While he has shown himself capable of withstanding physical exertions, the level of performance he demands does take its toll.
“The other thing with Cristiano is that he looks after himself so much so I know he will recover quickly. Of course, it’s important that we get everyone up and running and to get him up and running.”
With the UEFA Champions League set to resume this week, the games will come in thick and fast. It is imperative that Ronaldo is not overutilized and is rested when possible.
The Red Devils have enough quality in their ranks to cope without the Portuguese star. If need be, he can always come off the bench and make an impact.
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United have won three of their first four games in the Premier League and are top of the league on goals scored. With Ronaldo and co. finding their feet, the sky could be the limit this season.
