Erik ten Hag concedes Cristiano Ronaldo is "not on the level" of his fellow Manchester United squad members when it comes to being match fit.
The Portuguese superstar is poised to return to the fold during Sunday's game against Rayo Vallecano, which will be the team's final pre-season outing before they face Brighton in the Premier League next week. It will be Ronaldo's first and only game since last season if he does feature.
However, Ten Hag has suggested that his absence throughout pre-season may be an issue. The forward missed the team's tour of Asia and Australia, with speculation about his future ongoing. The new coach employs a high-energy philosophy - and Ronaldo could struggle initially to get up to speed.
He told Sky Sports when quizzed on Ronaldo's physical state: "I cannot tell in this moment. He is definitely not on the level of our current squad, because he missed a lot of week. So he needs games and he needs a lot of training."
The 37-year-old is renowned for putting in the extras and, despite his age, is still hailed for his physique. He was training back home in Portugal before heading back to Manchester. Ten Hag's comments come despite him claiming he had no concerns over his fitness levels.
He said earlier in July: "We all know Ronaldo is a top professional and will be fit, that is the last concern I have." The uncertainty surrounding the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has been a talking point all summer with Ten Hag unaware as to whether he will be part of his squad.
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Ronaldo has made his desire to leave clear and his representatives held showdown talks with United officials this week as they seek to find a resolution. A buyer is reportedly waiting in the wings but the Red Devils maintain he will not be sold.
The forward bit back on social media this week as news continues to swirl about his potential exit. He said: "Impossible not to talk about me one day. Otherwise the press makes no money. You know that if you don't lie you can't get people's attention. Keep going then one day you'll get some news right."
Chelsea and Bayern Munich were touted as potential destinations when it first emerged that Ronaldo wanted to leave Manchester, but they have distanced themselves from any moves. Napoli were speculated as suitors whilst a return to Sporting Lisbon could also be on the cards.
