Erik ten Hag has blasted the media furore that has surrounded Cristiano Ronaldo’s early exit from Manchester United’s friendly with Rayo Vallecano last weekend.
Ronaldo’s future has dominated the headlines in recent weeks with the forward having expressed a desire to leave the Red Devils this summer.
The 37-year-old was granted extended leave and missed the club’s pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia, before returning to action during the friendly with Vallecano at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo was one of several players who departed the ground early following his substitution, an action that was criticised by Ten Hag this week.
The Dutchman has, however, hit out against the media furore around Ronaldo and pointed that the Portugal captain was not alone in making a premature exit.
“Now I have to point, there were many players who left but the spotlight is on Cristiano, that is not right, so do your research and make out many players left, that was what was said,” Ten Hag told his pre-match press conference ahead of United’s season opener against Brighton.
“There were a lot of players. I’m really happy, I told you before, we have a top striker, really happy he’s here with the squad and we stick to the plan.”
