Erik ten Hag has left Cristiano Ronaldo under no uncertainty over how he could win back his place in the Manchester United starting XI.
The Portuguese forward was once again left on the bench by the Red Devils’ boss for Sunday’s clash with Arsenal - the fourth Premier League game in succession that he has been named as a substitute. In his place, United named a front three of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and summer signing Antony, who was making his debut since completing a big-money switch from Ajax.
In detailing his reasons behind the Brazilian’s inclusion from the off against the Gunners, Ten Hag hinted that he is already in sync with his demands - something that Ronaldo may have to work on should he wish to regain a starting berth.
Speaking ahead of kick-off against Arsenal, the Dutchman said: “He [Antony] knows the style we want to play and what we expect and demand. He can be an offensive threat with his speed in one on ones."
It of course remains to be seen whether Ronaldo will be able to regain his place in the United line-up over the coming campaign but either way, he is set to remain at Old Trafford.
Despite having lodged a request to quit the club earlier in the transfer window, he was not able to seal an exit before the window shut - moves to Chelsea, Napoli and Atletico Madrid, among others falling by the wayside throughout the window.
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The 37-year-old was the Red Devils’ top scorer last season having netted 24 goals in all competitions but he is yet to get off the mark so far this term. Ronaldo might well get more of an opportunity to start for the Red Devils over the coming weeks with the club’s hectic schedule set to get even worse with Carabao Cup and Europa League fixtures in the diary.
Should the five-time Ballon d’Or winner represent United in the Europa League this season, then it would be the first time that he has played in Europe’s secondary competition since the 2002/03 campaign when he played in the then UEFA Cup for Portuguese giants Sporting.
A lack of Champions League football this season was reportedly a prime reason behind his request to leave Man Utd this summer.
