Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence on Erik ten Hag's decision to drop him from the Manchester United squad to face Chelsea on Saturday, October 22. The 37-year-old, who faces an increasingly uncertain future at Old Trafford, has insisted that he will continue working hard and be ready whenever called upon.
A statement posted by the striker on his Instagram read: "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," Ronaldo added. "I started very young. The older and most experienced players' examples were always very important to me.
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"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 gets 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."
The Portugal international left Old Trafford early despite his side beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0. He was an unused substitute, as goals from Bruno Fernandes and Fred held Antonio Conte's side to a disappointing defeat.
Ronaldo was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea in the summer. football.london understand that the Blues sounded out a move in July, with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner eager to ply his trade in the Champions League.
And according to ESPN, Ronaldo was open to a move to west London. But, it remains to be seen whether the club reignite interest in the Portuguese star, with Potter keeping his cards close to his chest.
Speaking ahead of the west Londoners' home clash with AC Milan in the Champions League, Potter didn't rule anything out. He said: "We can spend all day with these questions, but I'm not going to speak about this. If they are not our players, I am not going to speak to them.'
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