Manchester United have published a statement that acknowledges the controversial comments that have been emerging from Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo has been at the centre of attention in recent months, with his future at Manchester United regularly being called into question. In some instances, he has not helped himself, like when he refused to come on as a substitute and left a match early.
There has been a constant undercurrent of rumours about who might take the 37-year-old off United’s hands. The prospect of him staying at Old Trafford for much longer was already looking slim.
In recent hours, the situation has become even more astonishing. Ronaldo has held an explosive interview with Piers Morgan, in which he has, among other things, claimed he has no respect for Erik ten Hag.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner supposedly feels “betrayed” by Manchester United. What’s more, he has hit out at other figures such as Ralf Rangnick and Wayne Rooney.
His full interview with Morgan, which lasts an hour and a half, will be televised via Talk TV on Wednesday at 8pm.
In the meantime, Manchester United have released a statement in response to Ronaldo’s controversial comments.
The club will not be making a full statement until “the full facts” come to light, but have reminded of their ethos of “togetherness” in their initial reaction – which Ronaldo seemingly isn’t a part of at present.
Man Utd statement on Cristiano Ronaldo interview
The statement, published at 2pm on Monday, reads: “Manchester United notes the media coverage regarding an interview by Cristiano Ronaldo.
“The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established.
“Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans.”
Ronaldo is under contract with Man Utd until June, although his immediate future is now in serious question.
The Portugal international has made 346 appearances across two spells with the club. Only 16 have come this season, six of which have come as a substitute. Ronaldo’s return has been three goals.
Seemingly not in favour for Ten Hag, Ronaldo might have done his chances of changing that no good with what he has been saying.
What follows from his full interview – and any subsequent response from the club – will no doubt dominate the news this week, even with a World Cup coming up.
Just as the situation has been for months, all eyes are going to be on Ronaldo.