Cristiano Ronaldo was benched by Erik Ten Hag’, who maintained that the forward will be held accountable for his outburst against Spurs.
WHAT OCCURED?
Four minutes before Manchester United’s match against Tottenham finished, the Portuguese angrily got off the bench. Then, Ten Hag left Ronaldo off the traveling roster for Saturday’s match against Chelsea.
Speaking to reporters, the Dutch manager said: “It is a difficult decision [to leave him out], it’s clear. But there have to be consequences for bad behaviour and when it is the second time you can’t let it go because otherwise, it will be misty and miserable for the future. You have to take this measure. What I don’t like is I prefer the squad with Cristiano on board.”
Ten Hag further added: “I think it is justified [his reputation] because he has achieved a lot in his career. I don’t have to mention. It is so brilliant. But he has to be aware that you get judged by the moment and how you are acting today. Especially in top sport, it is about today – it is not about age or about reputation.
Erik ten Hag has cautioned Cristiano Ronaldo that if he declines to play against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United supporters may turn against him.
Ronaldo worked out at Carrington alone on Friday with fitness instructors after being left out of the team to play Chelsea on Saturday.
Before deciding whether the 37-year-old can return to the first squad on Monday, Ten’ Hag will speak with him, but he warns that6 the striker may receive a harsh reception from fans if they feel he has mistreated the team.
While stating that he “wants and expects” Ronaldo to remain at Old Trafford through the end of the current campaign, Ten’ Hag is adamant that he won’t be welcomed back into the team unless he adheres to “certain standards.”
The Portuguese captain will likely be eligible for Thursday’s Europa League match against FC Sheriff, according to the Dutchman, but a decision won’t likely be made until after the trip to Chelsea.
‘Ten Hag was left in charge of deciding how to respond to Ronaldo’s reluctance to play against Tottenham, but sources have indicated to ESPN that United has supported Ten Hag’s handling of the matter.
Club officials gave Ten Hag the go-ahead to penalize Ronaldo, and the 52-year-old said he made his expectations of players plain.
