Pundit can’t believe Cristiano Ronaldo could go on strike at Man United after Erik ten Hag reveal
Noel Whelan has insisted Cristiano Ronaldo will not go on strike if he cannot get his wish and leave Man United for a Champions League club this summer.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 37-year-old will not let his “levels drop below 100%” during the final year of his contract.
As quoted by club media (11 July), new Man United boss Erik ten Hag insisted Ronaldo is “in our plans” and not for sale despite reported interest from top European clubs.
The legendary forward has requested to leave Old Trafford this summer as he enters the final year of his current contract – with Chelsea, Napoli and Porto all interested.
Ronaldo is yet to report back for pre-season training due to personal reasons and it is unclear whether he will join the squad to tour Australia and Thailand.
Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’ll be really disappointed not to be playing on the big stage and in the Champions League.
“But I do believe he’s professional enough to honour his contract and go out there and help Man United on the pitch.
“He’s not one of these players who start letting their levels drop below 100%, he’s far too professional for that – and we’ve seen that throughout the years.
“Even last year, when things weren’t going right – he’s finishing as the top scorer.
“Will he come in and cause fuss? No, he won’t.
“He’ll prefer to leave, but if that offer doesn’t come in then I’m sure he’ll get on with business just as every professional should.”
Ronaldo notched 24 goals in 38 appearances during the 2021-22 season.
He will be playing Europa League football for the first time if he remains at Old Trafford for the 2022-23 season.
In other news, pundit claims Man United are in “turmoil” as Ten Hag leaks lambasted.