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Erik ten Hag bluntly clarifies Manchester United’s stance on exit-linked superstar

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Manchester United ace Cristiano Ronaldo.

Erik ten Hag clarifies Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale

Speaking in a presser as quoted by popular Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, new Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has put an end to all the rumours surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo with the Dutch tactician clarifying that the Portuguese superstar is not for sale.

Ronaldo’s future has been under scrutiny in recent weeks ever since news emerged that the former Real Madrid man had asked to leave Man United over the lack of ambition by the club. He then did not turn up for pre-season training due to a family issue.

The 37-year-old striker joined the club he first became a superstar at last summer, leaving Juventus in the process. His homecoming has not gone according to plan despite more than decent performances from the star man.

Ronaldo was expected to be the final jigsaw in the puzzle to lead Man United back to glory but it does feel like the Portuguese striker has only made the Red Devils take a step back with the PL giants having an abysmal season.

The Red Devils went trophyless yet again this season struggling to a sixth-place finish in the Champions League. They got knocked out of the round of 16 in the Champions League and failed to win either of the cup competitions.

The 37-year-old played 38 times for the English club upon his return to Premier League football and managed to score 24 goals and provide three assists across all competitions. Those numbers are very impressive, especially considering his age.

Erik ten Hag expects Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Manchester United.  (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
Erik ten Hag expects Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Manchester United. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Interim manager Ralf Ragnick claimed that he had to compromise on his playstyle due to the lack of pressing by Cristiano Ronaldo at the top. As good as the former Juventus man is, he is 37 and it is not fair to be expecting him to press intensely for 90 minutes.

Hence, there is a feeling that maybe Ronaldo could be an issue with the team’s playing style but it seems like Erik ten Hag has absolutely no doubts. Speaking about his future, the Dutch tactician was quick to insist the 37-year-old was not for sale.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is NOT for sale, he is in our plans – he’s not with us due to personal issues. We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo for this season, that’s it”

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This will hopefully calm the nerves around Cristiano Ronaldo’s future and hopefully, the Portuguese superstar will get over his personal issues and be back with us training soon.