According to rumors, Manchester United will not penalize Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving their exhibition game against Rayo Vallecano early. In Sunday’s 1-1 draw with the Spanish team, the fugitive forward had his first appearance under Erik ten Hag’s leadership. However, he was seen departing Old Trafford before the game was over.
In the deadlock, Ronaldo played his first 45 minutes of the preseason. The 37-year-old only returned to his club this week after spending more time in Portugal during the summer due to “family reasons.”
At halftime, Ten Hag removed the former Real Madrid player. Amad Diallo, who took over for him, later scored the game’s lone goal for United by tapping it in in front of the Stretford End.
However, Ronaldo was seen exiting the stadium before the game had even finished after being replaced. It’s unknown whether Ronaldo traveled home on his own initiative or whether the club administration approved of the action.
However, Old Trafford officials argue that other players also left the stadium early and have no problem with Ronaldo departing the stadium early. According to the Daily Star, Ronaldo’s move doesn’t do much to demonstrate his desire to stay at the club.
Jorge Mendes, Ronaldo’s agent, has been trying to ensure Ronaldo’s departure this summer. The athlete desires to keep competing in the Champions League.
However, it doesn’t seem like many clubs would be willing to pay a sum in addition to Ronaldo’s £500,000 weekly wage. Premier League opponents Chelsea were rumored to be interested, but manager Thomas Tuchel was said to be skeptical by the financial and sporting arguments for a potential trade.
A fantastical return to Ronaldo’s original club, Sporting Lisbon, has been proposed. In order to return to the Primeira Liga team, the Portugal international would have to accept a significant pay cut.
Both officially and privately, United have emphasized that their highest-paid player is not up for sale. Last season, Ronaldo defied his age by scoring 24 goals in all competitions and supporting his club during some trying times.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is the only player we are preparing for this season. I’m eager to collaborate with him. There is no price for Cristiano. Erik ten Hag declared in mid-July in response to credible allegations of Ronaldo’s desire to leave: “He is in our plans, and we want success together.
“He’s not on the road with us, and there are personal reasons for that. Before this matter arose, I chatted with him. I spoke with him, and it was a fantastic conversation. Between Cristiano and I, only. I can say with certainty that our chat was excellent. After (the news), I didn’t talk to him.
