Benchwarmer Ronaldo may well leave Manchester United in winter

Created: 10/04/2022 12:53 p.m

By: Marius Epp

Cristiano Ronaldo has envisioned his return to Manchester United very differently.

The superstar messed up on the bench - and is now allowed to go after all.

Manchester - Cristiano Ronaldo has many fond memories of Manchester United.

The current situation after his return to the Red Devils is completely new territory for him.

Under coach Erik ten Hag, the Portuguese is a permanent substitute - for the first time in his professional career.

A courageous decision by the Dutchman, which naturally brings with it some criticism if the results are not right.

In the derby against Manchester City, the ten Hag team was thrown to the hat-trick scorers Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.

Ronaldo spent 90 minutes on the bench in the 3: 6 bankruptcy.

Ten Hag didn't want to substitute him "out of respect for his great career", according to his strange explanation.

Ronaldo may now leave Manchester United - unlike in the summer

Now Ronaldo is apparently allowed to go in winter.

This is reported by the English media, above all the

.

Unlike in the summer, Ten Hag is said to be in agreement with a move if a suitable offer for the 37-year-old striker comes in the winter transfer window.

Ronaldo's contract runs until June 30, 2023. 

Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't usually know the substitutes' bench.

© IMAGO/David Blunsden

Ronaldo was reportedly keen to leave the English record champions in the summer as the five-time Champions League winner wanted to play in the premier club again.

However, the Netherlands boss and the Premier League club's management insisted he stay. 

Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United only substitute - no league goal

The Portuguese international made his only start-up appearance in the 4-0 defeat by Brentford on August 13, since then he has only played 80 minutes in the league as a substitute and is still without a goal.

The Red Devils can't do without him either, with a game less than nine points behind leaders Arsenal.

The fact is: Not many clubs can afford Ronaldo's salary, which is why not many doors are likely to open for the 37-year-old in Europe.

He will need the World Cup to put himself back in the spotlight.

Not an easy task without match practice beforehand.