CRISTIANO RONALDO started the new season on the bench for Manchester United against Brighton – and looked far from happy.
New boss Erik ten Hag left the star out of his starting XI for today’s clash at Old Trafford – his first competitive match in charge of the club – and it backfired as they suffered a shock 2-1 defeat.
Ronaldo appeared to be struggling to find a smile as he took his place on the sidelines before he was introduced in the 53rd-minute – but he was unable to spark a comeback.
Ten Hag’s short Red Devils reign so far has been dominated by questions over Ronaldo’s future.
The star, 37, missed the tour of Bangkok and Australia for family reasons and played just 45 minutes since then, in last week’s draw with Rayo Vallecano, which he left before the final whistle.
The Portuguese icon is desperate to leave the club to play in the Champions League.
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But with a lack of offers coming in, the wantaway superstar and his new boss are in limbo.
CR7 is still a United player, after failing to secure an exit in this transfer window.
Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid have all passed up opportunities to sign him.
While boyhood club Sporting Lisbon and even Turkish giants Galatasaray have been linked.
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Recent reports suggested Ronaldo had “put the squeeze” on new boss Ten Hag to start him against the Seagulls.
However, the brave boss showed his authority by only naming the icon as substitute.
Meanwhile, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez both made their debuts for United against Brighton after joining this summer.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
