Not what you think – Erik ten Hag explains why he dropped Cristiano Ronaldo for Man United vs Chelsea
Ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has spoken out after Cristiano Ronaldo was penalized.
Erik ten Hag said Cristiano Ronaldo had to face “consequences” after refusing to come on for Manchester United in their 2-0 win against Tottenham.
Ronaldo warmed up and was scheduled to come in in the 87th minute, but Anthony Elanga and Christian Eriksen were substituted instead. Ronaldo left the field in the 90th minute and has been left out of the squad to face Chelsea on Saturday.
Ten Hag chastised Ronaldo for leaving Old Trafford before full-time in July after playing the first half of a friendly match with Rayo Vallecano, emphasizing that his second infringement will be punished.
Ronaldo arrived at United’s Carrington training center at 8.30 a.m. on Friday and worked out separately with fitness trainers.
“If you inquire about the talk, it’s between Cristiano and me,” Ten Hag remarked. “I believe the statement is also clear. He is still a key member of the team.
“As a chief manager, I am accountable for the top sport culture here, and I must set norms and values as well as control them.” We have team ideals and standards, which I must enforce.
“So, after Rayo Vallecano, I told him it was inappropriate, but he wasn’t the only one, so it’s for everyone, so if it happens again, there will be consequences.”
“He’ll be missed tomorrow.” It’s a setback for the squad, but it’s vital for the group’s attitude and mentality, and now we have to focus on Chelsea, which is the most important thing.
“I think it will have a (period for) reflection for him, but also for everyone else, I sent a warning at the start of the season, there have to be consequences else when you live together when you play together, football is a team sport and you have to meet certain criteria.” And I have to keep it under control.
“I understand there are concerns about that, but it’s also about Chelsea; we have a major game to play, and my emphasis, as well as the attention of the staff and the players, is on that game.” We have to win that game and be focused in order to play our best.”
