Manchester United great Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly ready to quit the club due to a lack of progress in the transfer market under new boss Erik ten Hag.
The Portuguese captain made a sensational return to Old Trafford last summer, 13 years after he left in a then world record deal to join Spanish giants Real Madrid.
His return to the Red Devils did not have the desired effects. Despite scoring 24 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions, Ronaldo could not help improve the team.
United had a dismal season resulting in a sixth placed finish in the Premier League.
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Ronaldo’s signing was ultimately criticised due to whether he is still capable of playing the pressing game and over general cohesion with other team mates.
The 37-year-old is heading towards the last year of his current deal with United, and both he has spoken about spending another season in England after the new manager rebuilds the squad.
But the rebuild hasn’t started yet, despite the likes of Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata all departing the club, no new players have been brought in yet.
United were interested in Darwin Nunez but the Uruguayan favoured a move to Liverpool. Interests in Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong and Ajax winger Antony haven’t turned into concrete offers yet.
The club were also in for Ajax Dutch defender Jurrien Timber but former United manager Louis van Gaal warned him off making the move.
As a result of the lack of progress, Ronaldo is said to be heavily frustrated with the club, and according to Portuguese news outlet, Record, he is ready to quit.
It has been reported that the former Sporting Lisbon and Juventus star sent a stern message of warning to United officials that read: “Up your game or I’ll leave.”
Ronaldo is believed to have told his inner circle that if the lack of transfers continue, he will start looking for a new club.
At the time of Ten Hag’s appointment, Ronaldo told the club website: “What I know about (ten Hag) is he did a fantastic job for Ajax, that he's an experienced coach. But we need to give him time.”
“Things need to change the way he wants. I hope we have success, of course, because, if you have success, all of Manchester is going to have success as well. I wish him the best.”
“We are happy and excited, not only as players, but the supporters as well. I wish him the best and let's believe that, next year, we are going to win trophies.”
Will we see Ronaldo lining up for United in the new season? Only time will tell.
Topics: Football, Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League
Marcus Chan