‘I count on Cristiano’- Erik ten Hag’s thoughts on Ronaldo’s future adds fresh twist to exit rumours

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to keep Cristiano Ronaldo, as speculation about the striker’s future grows in the aftermath of his latest controversial incident. Ronaldo refused to come on as a substitute in Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Tottenham on Wednesday night, storming down the tunnel at Old Trafford before full-time.

As a result, he has been forced to train alone and will not be included in the squad for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea. Ten Hag stressed the importance of making an example of the 37-year-old, who also left a pre-season friendly earlier this summer. He does not, however, want to see Ronaldo leave in January, despite reports that United would be willing to let him leave on a free transfer.

Ten Hag was asked ahead of his team’s visit to Stamford Bridge if he thought Ronaldo would stay at United until the end of the season when his contract expires, and if he wanted him to stay, to which he simply replied: “Both.”

“That [talk of Ronaldo leaving in January] is speculation. I count on Cristiano. So in this moment, it is not an item,” Ten Hag added.

Manchester United take on Chelsea at the Stamford Bridge

United travel to Chelsea knowing that a win will vault them above the Blues and into the top four of the Premier League. Ten Hag has used Ronaldo minimally this season, with only two Premier League starts. However, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner did score his 700th career club goal in the second of those, scoring the game-winning goal against Everton earlier this month.

Manchester United and Chelsea have nearly identical records and are currently one point behind from fourth place Chelsea in the Premier League. Erik ten Hag will be hoping for another statement performance and back-to-back victories against fellow top-four contenders, demonstrating that United are a serious force to be reckoned with this season.