Soccer

Ten Hag ignores Ronaldo rumors

Manchester United’s new coach Erik Ten Hag says that Cristiano Ronaldo is definitely in their plans, and he’s “not for sale”.

Rumors that Cristiano Ronaldo is unhappy at Manchester United and wants to leave are just that - rumors. At least, that’s what United’s new head coach Erik Ten Hag is insisting.

“He hasn’t told me this. I’ve read [that he wants to leave]. But Cristiano is not for sale,” said Ten Hag.

Ronaldo did not report to Carrington for pre-season training, nor is he currently on tour with the team in Thailand. Ten Hag says that is not a concern, that it’s due to personal reasons. Whether or not Ronaldo joins the team on Tuesday for their game against Liveropol is uncertain. The team will later move on to Australia.

“We want to get success together,” said Ten Hag. “I spoke to him before this issue came up. I had a conversation with him and a really good talk.”

Ronaldo averaged a goal or an assist every 118 minutes for United in all competitions in 2021-22.