Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reaffirmed the club’s stance that Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale.
The 37-year-old has not reported for pre-season duty, citing family reasons for his prolonged absence.
However, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has asked the club to consider offers from Champions League clubs given the Red Devils absence from Europe’s top club competition.
The former Ajax manager was speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of his first match as manager of Manchester United which comes against fierce rivals Liverpool in Bangkok, Thailand, tomorrow.
The 52-year-old said: “He’s not with us, it’s due to personal issues. We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo for this season.
“I’m looking forward to working with him.
“Cristiano is not for sale, he is in our plans. We want success together.”
United’s new manager confirmed that he spoke with the club’s legendary number seven before the current issues arose.
He added: I spoke to him before this issue came up. We had a good talk.”
Ronaldo was United’s top scorer last season with 24 goal across all competitions, 18 of which came in the Premier League. Only Mohammed Salah and Heung-Min Son scored more than the former Juventus man.
Ronaldo has one year left on his current deal, with the option of a further 12 months.
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