Cristiano Ronaldo future at Man Utd completely resolved after telling Erik ten Hag statement
Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag insists that he and Cristiano Ronaldo are both “on the same page” and that there is no chance of the legendary forward moving to another club on deadline day.
The 37-year-old’s future at Old Trafford has been up for debate since the start of the summer, with the Ronaldo missing the start of pre-season for family reasons amid talk that he wanted a move to a club competing in the Champions League.
However, there have so far been very few genuine takers for the Red Devils frontman. That is despite links to the likes of Chelsea, PSG, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, both Milan giants and Napoli.
Indeed, there was a report on Wednesday of Thomas Tuchel’s men still working on a late deal for the attacker.
However, his chances of an exit before Thursday’s 11pm deadline now appear between slim and none.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has started only one of United’s opening five games this season. Unfortunately for him, that was the 4-0 rout by Brentford and he’s been forced into cameo appearances since.
There have also been reports of Ronaldo isolating himself from the rest of the first-team squad. It’s also claimed he has been showing frustration at Ten Hag’s training methods.
However, according to United’s new Dutch boss, the veteran forward is fully on board.
Ten Hag insists that Ronaldo is content at the club and will play an important role in any system he opts to use this season.
When asked by reporters whether he has recently spoken to Ronaldo about his future, Ten Hag said: “Several times, yes. We are on the same page. [He is happy to stay] otherwise he wouldn’t be here.
“The way of playing, the set of demands, you can see in training Ronaldo has the ability.
“He will fit in because… I don’t have to explain, he is a great player with great capabilities. He will fit in every system and every style. We are on one page, and he knows what the demands are.”
Ronaldo set for bench role again
Ronaldo could find himself on the bench again as United prepare to face Leicester on Thursday night.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s hopes of starting have suffered another potential dent after United splashed out £86million on Ajax forward Antony.
The Brazilian is unlikely to make his debut against the Foxes, however, as he awaits his visa and international clearance.
The 22-year-old is relishing wearing the famous red shirt of United though.
Speaking about this move, Antony said: “This is an incredible moment in my career to be joining one of the most iconic clubs in the world. I’m thankful to everyone who has believed in me, especially my family, and all my coaches and teammates. I could not have got here without them.
“Playing under Erik ten Hag at Ajax was perfect for me and my development. His style of football and coaching brings out the best in me, and I am excited by what he has told me about his plans and ambitions in Manchester.
“My time at Ajax was fantastic and I will always be grateful for the trust they put in me, but now I am ready for the next challenge, and I can’t wait to join my new team-mates and play my part in bringing success to Manchester United.”
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