Ten Hag: Cristiano Ronaldo is ‘not for sale’

Speaking in a press conference ahead of Manchester United’s friendly with Liverpool in Bangkok on Tuesday, Erik ten Hag discussed Cristiano Ronaldo’s current situation at the club.

Ronaldo wants to leave United this summer should the right offer come in and has not travalled with the club for their pre-season tour due to “personal reasons”.

Ronaldo left out for ‘personal issues’

“He’s not with us, it’s due to personal issues,” Ten Hag said.

“We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo for this season. I’m looking forward to working with him.

“He hasn’t told me he wants to leave. I have read but what I say, Cristiano is not for sale. He is in our plans and we want to have success together.”

Ten Hag added that he has not spoken to the 37-year-old forward since news of his desire to leave Old Trafford became public.

“I spoke with him before this issue came up. I had a conversation with him and a real good talk,” he continued.

“That is between Cristiano and me. Only what I can confirm is that we had a really good conversation together.”

Maguire to continue as Man United captain

Ten Hag also confirmed at the news conference that Harry Maguire will keep the captain’s armband at United for the coming season.

“Harry Maguire is the captain,” he said. “Of course I have to get to know all the players but he is the established captain and he has achieved a lot of success.”