Erik ten Hag will turn his back on Cristiano Ronaldo when he becomes the new Manchester United manager.
Ten Hag is set to take charge of United in June once he finishes the current season with Ajax, after agreeing a deal in principle with the fallen giants. And the Dutchman has given the green light for Ronaldo to leave Old Trafford after making it clear the United legend will not figure in his long-term plans at Old Trafford.
The news will upset United supporters, who still regard Ronaldo as an iconic figure at the club despite his ongoing difficulties this season. Fans went into meltdown last summer when Ronaldo, 37, snubbed neighbours Manchester City to make a shock return to United from Juventus in a £12million transfer.
Ronaldo was expected to help United challenge for trophies again, but his Old Trafford comeback has become a nightmare. The Red Devils have never been in the title race, and will finish the season without a trophy for the fifth consecutive campaign. Ronaldo does have the option to extend his contract by a further 12 months, but the forward has been considering his future since the turn of the year after becoming disillusioned with the reality of life at United.
Ronaldo is United's top scorer this season with 18 goals, but he has only netted four times in his last 13 games and has struggled at times to make Ralf Rangnick's starting XI despite his reputation. It is understood Ronaldo met his agent, Jorge Mendes, in Portugal at the end of March to assess his options ahead of next season, and multiple offers are expected.
While Ronaldo will not be short of suitor, it appears his fate at United has now been decided for him, with Ten Hag telling United chiefs that the veteran's age and luxury status mean he is not suited to the style of play and approach he will look to implement moving forward, once he takes charge in June.
