Cristiano Ronaldo to be sidelined against Chelsea despite penning an apology note

Cristiano Ronaldo- Source (Twitter)

The never-ending saga between Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo took another new twist on October 20, Thursday, when the club announced that he will not be part of the squad against Chelsea. A short statement was given by the club and no explanation was given as to why such a step was taken.

Earlier, a report from Athletic claimed that the Portuguese international did not come out as a substitute in United’s midweek clash that happened against Tottenham. He is now expected to train solo. Ronaldo took to Instagram to apologise for his misbehaviour that unfolded in the fixture against Tottenham.

Here is the post:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)

As I’ve always done throughout my career, I try to live and play respectfully towards my colleagues, my adversaries, and my coaches. That hasn’t changed. I haven’t changed. I’m the same person and the same professional that I’ve been for the last 20 years playing elite football, and respect has always played a very important role in my decision-making process.

'Will Deal with the Ronaldo issue later' - Eric Ten Hag

I started very young, the older and most experienced players examples were always very important to me. Therefore, later on, I’ve always tried to set the example myself for the youngsters that grew in all the teams that I’ve represented. Unfortunately that’s not always possible and sometimes the heat of the moment get’s the best of us.

Right now, I just feel that I have to keep working hard in Carrington, support my teammates and be ready for everything in any given game. Giving in to the pressure is not an option. It never was. This is Manchester United, and united we must stand. Soon we’ll be together again. 💪🏽🙏🏽

“Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s Premier League game against Chelsea. The rest of the squad is fully focused on preparing for that fixture,” the statement read.

Against Tottenham, Ronaldo, who started on the bench for the home team, was seen trudging back inside the ground tunnel before the game ended.

Manchester United Manager Eric Ten Hag said that he will deal with the issue concerning Ronaldo on October 20. This was not the first time for the football great as he was not started by Ten Hag this season and has been falling down the pecking order in terms of being the preferred striker for the Red Devils.