Manchester United are set to head out for their pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia on Friday. However, the Red Devils are not sure if their center-forward star will accompany them on tour. Unfortunately, Cristiano Ronaldo has not reported back for the training sessions at Carrington. The Portuguese International has cited family reasons, which the club has accepted. The 37-year-old was supposed to join his teammates on Monday. However, Ronaldo is currently staying in shape at the Cidade do Futebol training base in Portugal for the past few days.
Cristiano’s absence from the training camp after stating his intentions to leave the club this summer would be a concern for United. The Portuguese international intends to play Champions League. But the Red Devils have failed to qualify for the European league after finishing sixth in the Premier League last season. Cristiano scored 24 goals in all competitions last year, but United recorded their lowest-ever Premier League points last season. Thus, if Ronaldo misses the pre-season tour, it would be considered the end of his second stint at Old Trafford. Ronaldo was thrilled to return to the club last season, but United failed to play to their potential.
How Will Ronaldo’s Exit Affect Ten Hag’s Transfer Plans?
The lack of transfer activity from the new manager Erik ten Hag is also a concern for CR7 as the team rebuilding could result in the club missing out on the Champions League once again. But, Ronaldo would want to win more trophies as he is in the late stages of his career. Thus, while the United has warned teams that Cristiano is not for sale this summer, they might end up accepting a good offer from a foreign team.
The club’s main concern right now is to focus on their new manager’s pre-season activities. Tyrell Malacia is their first signing this summer and Christian Eriksen committing verbally to join the United. The Red Devils are also eyeing Ajax’s, Antony Santos. But, the club boss Alfred Schreuder clarified the Brazilian has a contract until 2025 and wants to work with him.
Further, former striker Louis Saha claimed that Manchester United is in a tough place after Ronaldo requested to leave. Moreover, if CR7 leaves, Erick ten Hag will have to focus on acquiring more players in the attack. The club scored quite fewer goals last season. Hence, United will have to find a way to sort the whole issue before the start of the pre-season. The Red Devils will play their first game against Liverpool next Tuesday in Bangkok. Further, they will travel to Australia for friendly encounters with Manchester City, Crystal Palace, and Aston Villa.