A new Manchester United decision that will split opinion has come to light, amid question marks over a potential Cristiano Ronaldo move.
To say Ronaldo’s situation at United is not running smoothly is an understatement. His return to Old Trafford appeared a fairy-tale story when he left Juventus.
Indeed, last season, the legendary striker returned to the club where he became one of the world’s biggest talents. Ronaldo won his first Ballon d’Or with the club in 2008.
That followed a mesmerising 2007/08 season in which he finished as the Premier League’s top goalscorer, with 31 goals. During his first spell with the Red Devils, he racked up 118 goals.
He has continued to etch his name into footballing history each season. He notched 450 goals at Real Madrid and 101 at Juventus, alongside his present tally of 117 Portugal goals.
As such, United fans were thrilled when their former star finally returned. He got off to a flier, too, bagging a brace against Newcastle United in his first game back.
He also netted in his second Premier League game, and in each of United’s first five Champions League games last season. Indeed, it was little surprise that Ronaldo was his side’s top goalscorer last season.
However, United’s lack of Champions League football led to the Portuguese handing in a transfer request.
Surprisingly, United were not able to find an agreement with a side to take Ronaldo off their hands.
That has led to a rather unsavoury situation this season. The forward’s discipline has come into question of late, as he refused to come on as a substitute against Tottenham, and was dropped from the squad for the next game.
United keep the faith
Much has been made of the situation around Ronaldo since he walked out of Old Trafford before full time. Speculation has been rife over what the next step is for the Portuguese.
Indeed, there have been links to a move away from the club. Whatever happens, it seems United plan to keep faith with the striker options that available to them, even if Ronaldo leaves.
That is according to The Athletic, who state that even if Ronaldo does leave the club in January, they will not immediately go looking for a replacement in the same window.
Indeed, the report states United will have a low-key window, following a big spend in the summer.
Instead of snaring a new attacker, Erik ten Hag’s side will rely on their current striker corps, consisting of just Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial.
Forwards thriving amid Ronaldo situation
The decision not to replace Ronaldo, should he leave, does not seem a bad one on current form.
Indeed, Rashford is thriving as the focal point in United’s attack. He has already bettered his combined tally of goals and assists from last season.
Martial has also had something of a revival in his United career of late. Indeed, it was on the rocks as he was sent out to Sevilla for the second half of last season, after scoring just once for United in the campaign before that point.
However, he has already scored three goals – including a brace against Manchester City – and provided two assists this term.
He had spearheaded Ten Hag’s attack in the first three matches in pre-season, suggesting the Frenchman will be the No 1 centre-forward if he can overcome his injury troubles.
Whether or not Ronaldo does leave the club remains to be seen. He could still have a future at Old Trafford, if reported talks with Ten Hag have a positive outcome.