Wayne Rooney “not surprised” with the premature departure of Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney is “not surprised” by the premature departure of Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo from the club. The former England striker expected the outcome after the striker’s interview with Piers Morgan.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner made some controversial statements in his conversation with the British broadcaster. As a result, there was uncertainty surrounding his future at the Manchester-based club.
Speaking on Visa India’s Match Centre (h/t Manchester Evening News), Rooney, who played alongside Ronaldo at United, expressed grief at the way the Portuguese icon’s second stint at the Red Devils has ended. However, he feels such a thing was bound to happen.
“I think it’s sad. It’s sad to see a player like Cristiano Ronaldo, as I’ve said many times one of the best players of all time, to see it end this way with Manchester United is obviously, as a former teammate and a fan of Manchester United, it’s sad to see it end this way.
“But I think once everyone’s seen the interview, with Piers Morgan and how he attacked the club. I think there was no option. There’s no option for this [not] to happen, so I’m not surprised, no.”
In the current campaign, the 37-year-old saw his influence in the squad dwindle. Erik ten Hag preferred other options ahead of the former Real Madrid superstar.
As a result, Ronaldo did not have as many minutes on the pitch for the Old Trafford side as most would have expected. His form in front of goal had been underwhelming as well under the Dutch manager.
Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have been the former Ajax head coach’s first-choice players to play in the number nine position. And the two have had a considerable impact in the team.
The England international currently has eight goals for United in all competitions, the most by any player in the squad. On the other hand, while the former AS Monaco forward has struggled with injuries this season, he has been quality when on the pitch.
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Most fans feel Ronaldo knew what he was doing with the timing of his comments. And while what has transpired is regretful, it was the right step for the club. Now, it remains to be seen where the Portuguese icon ends up in January.
