Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man Utd future already decided - on ‘one condition’

Manchester United reportedly expect Cristiano Ronaldo to push for an exit again in the January transfer window. The attacker tried to leave over the summer but ended up staying at Old Trafford beyond the deadline.

Ronaldo, 37, has made eight appearances in all competitions so far this season, with six coming in the Premier League. He has found the net only once. According to a report by ESPN, United boss Erik ten Hag is ‘understanding’ of his position but is still ‘reluctant’ to let him head out the exit door midway through a season.

It appears the decision lies in the hands of his manager and if the Portugal international did depart, the club would be an option short in their attacking department so would be under pressure to find a replacement. Ronaldo’s desire, according to the report, all hangs on first-team football and if he were to continue struggling for game-time, he would push for an exit.

‘Out of respect’...

Ronaldo was left on the bench in United’s 6-2 defeat to Manchester City over the weekend and Ten Hag explained that decision after the game to Sky Sports:

“I didn’t bring him on out of respect for his big career.

“And the other thing, there was then the advantage I could bring Antony Martial on. He needs the minutes but I don’t want to point it out like that.”

Ronaldo made a heroic return to England last year and fired an impressive 18 goals in all competitions in the last campaign. However, his time with United has now turned sour due to his lack of game time. The situation needs resolving soon and the player remains under contract until the summer of 2024.

Next up for Ten Hag’s side is a European away trip on Thursday to take on Omonoia FC before returning to league action this weekend against Everton away.