New Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, speaking to the media for the first time in Bangkok, has confirmed that the Red Devils do not intend to sell Cristiano Ronaldo. He has also confirmed that Harry Maguire will stay on as the captain of the senior team.
“Harry Maguire is the captain,”
ten Hag confirmed.
“Of course, I have to get to know all the players and it takes time. But he is an established captain for a few years and he has achieved a lot of success, so I don’t doubt about this issue.”
Furthermore, the Dutchman confirmed the club’s stance on the future of Cristiano. The Portugal international has been linked with an exit recently, with Chelsea and Napoli among those mentioned as possible destinations for the talisman.
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However, Ten Hag reiterated that Ronaldo remains an important member of the squad – and is not for sale at any price.
The former AFC Ajax head coach also addressed rumours surrounding Ronaldo’s continued absence from the United pre-season camp, confirming that he hasn’t joined his teammates on tour due to an ongoing personal issue.
“He’s not with us, it’s due to personal issues.”
“We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo for this season. I’m looking forward to working with him.
“He hasn’t told me he wants to leave. I have read but what I say, Cristiano is not for sale. He is in our plans and we want to have success together,”
the Dutchman stated.
United’s first pre-season friendly takes place on July 12, which sees them taking on rivals Liverpool in Bangkok. The Red Devils, following that game, will fly to Australia to commence the second stage of their tour.
