Cristiano Ronaldo was selected in Manchester United’s starting XI to face Rayo Vallecano amid continued reports of a summer transfer, but he did not stay until the final whistle. Despite not appearing in any of the Red Devils’ previous five pre-season games, the 37-year-old was named to Erik ten Hag’s starting lineup.
Ronaldo hinted on social media that he would play against Rayo, telling his followers “the king plays,” leading to rumors that he would come off the bench, but Ten Hag opted to use him from the start at Old Trafford.
What Did Ten Hag Say About Ronaldo?
Ten Hag initially announced that Ronaldo will be in his team for the Rayo friendly match following United’s 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in Spain on Saturday.
The Dutchman acknowledged that the veteran forward is still a long way behind the rest of his senior team-mates in regards to fitness, having only recently returned after a prolonged holiday.
“He is not on the level of the rest of the squad because he missed a lot of weeks,” ten Hag told Viaplay. “But he needs games and he needs training, a lot.”
Why Did Ronaldo Leave Old Trafford?
Ronaldo started the first 45 minutes of United’s 1-1 tie with Rayo before being replaced at halftime by Amad Diallo.
The striker was then spotted leaving Old Trafford before the end of the match, and the club has yet to disclose whether or not Ten Hag sanctioned his departure.
Who Else Was In Ten Hag’s Starting XI?
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Ronaldo was joined in the spotlight by Lisandro Martinez, a £46.5 million ($57 million) summer signing who was given a center-back position alongside Raphael Varane.
After appearing briefly against Atletico, Christian Eriksen was selected for Ten Hag’s starting lineup, along with Donny van de Beek and young Argentine Alejandro Garnacho.
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