Manchester United has asked Cristiano Ronaldo to report for Preseason despite his desire to leave the Club.
According to reports, despite advising the Club to cash in on any suitable offers for him during the transfer window, Ronaldo has been asked to report to work.
The club hierarchy has asked the Portuguese to ensure that he is available for the preseason tour kicking off this week.
Ronaldo currently has one year left on his contract after signing a 2-year contract upon his return to the Club last summer.
Although Ronaldo, who has been chalked as an important part of Erik ten Hag’s plans, wants to stay at United, he wants to play Champions League football.
The 37-year-old is aware that the curtains are closing on his illustrious career, and he is looking at bowing down on a high.
Finishing in the fifth position last season meant that Manchester United will be playing in the Europa League this season. But Ronaldo, who currently has 5 Champions League titles to his name, would prefer to play in the UEFA Champions League.
Ronaldo won the Player’s Player of the Year, and the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award last season, but the Club performed below par in all competitions.
Out of the four possible trophies which Manchester United competed for last season, they were unable to win any of them. To add more salt to their injury, they lost their Champions League place and would have to play in the Europa League next season.
Ronaldo remains a hot favourite among elite clubs across Europe and the MLS. There are reports that Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Napoli are among the clubs looking to land the experienced forward.
According to football pundits, the departure of Ronaldo will greatly affect Erik ten Hag’s plans next season, especially as the Club continues to find it difficult in the transfer market.
Manchester United is yet to sign a player this season, with all their interests opting to play for Clubs in the Champions League next season.
Also, getting a player in the same class as Ronaldo in terms of goal-scoring prowlers will cost the Club a fortune both in transfer fees and wages. Not to talk of the blow, it will deal with their fan base and sponsorship deals.
Confirming the reports that the Club has been duly informed of Ronaldo’s desire to leave Manchester United, but insists that he must report for Preseason, a senior reporter for the Mirror was quoted as saying:
“Cristiano Ronaldo has been told by Manchester United that he must be on their preseason tour this week – despite his desire to leave.”
