Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo who left Old Trafford before full-time in Wednesday’s Premier League win over Tottenham Hotspur has sparked reactions from many people. The Portuguese star was an unused substitute in their 2-0 win over Spurs. He left the bench and walked down the tunnel in the 89th minute when he discovered he is not going to play again.
It is understood Ronaldo briefly went into the dressing room before leaving the stadium. The head coach of the club Erik ten Hag said after the game that he would “deal with” the issue on Thursday which is today. He said: “I have seen him, but I haven’t spoken with him.”
Manchester United had made only three of their five permitted substitutions when Ronaldo got off the bench, shortly after Ten Hag brought on Christian Eriksen and Anthony Elanga. Ronaldo also showed his displeasure at being substituted in Sunday’s goalless draw. Ten Hag said after that game that he had “no problem” with Ronaldo’s reaction but the player must convince him “he has to stay on.”
Reacting to that, former England striker Gary Lineker said Ronaldo’s behaviour took attention away from United’s impressive performance in the game. He said: “That is unacceptable – it is so poor.”
Also, Ex-Wales captain Ashley Williams said: “It was a great night for Manchester United and here we are again talking about Cristiano Ronaldo – even though he didn’t play.”
Former England defender Micah Richards said: “For one of the greats of the game to do that when your team are winning, making it about him, is disappointing.” Richards said Ronaldo’s behaviour was “disrespectful” and he should be allowed to leave in the January transfer window.