Cristiano Ronaldo has made it perfectly clear that he wants his time in Manchester to be over. CR7 has come under immense criticism after his actions on the weekend. 

There has been much speculation about Cristiano's future during this summer transfer window. These rumors were finally confirmed when a report came out by David Ornstein and Adam Crafton, journalists at The Athletic, that Ronaldo and his team have informed Manchester United that he would like to leave the club. Understandably, Cristiano is motivated to play in the Champions League again and actually fight for trophies. 

On Sunday, July 31st, Manchester United had a friendly match against La Liga side, Rayo Vallecano. Days prior, Cristiano commented on social media: "Sunday, the King plays". This sparked some hope in the hearts of United fans that the Portuguese striker, who missed the majority of preseason, was back for good. These hopes were dashed when he proceeded to play just one half of football, get subbed off, and then actually leave the game early. Cristiano was not alone in his early departure, with Manchester United and fellow Portugal National Team player, Diogo Dalot, accompanying the star. 

Far from happy, Erik ten Hag, the new Manchester United manager, chastised the players who left early and abandoned their teammates, club, and fans. It is important to note that the manager did not mention the players by name. Perhaps trying to calm tensions and restore unity among the squad. Erik Ten Hag has consistently stated throughout the summer that Cristiano Ronaldo is part of his plans for the season; someone might need to let Ronaldo know...

“This is unacceptable. For everyone. We are a team and you have to stay until the end.” - Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United

 

This is huge red flag for United fans who were optimistic of the striker staying, and, in my opinion, a surprisingly immature move from the five-time Ballon d'Or winner. I have to feel bad for the fans that went to the game and expected to see Ronaldo. It must be disheartening to have gone to see Ronaldo, and then he just leaves in the middle of the game. Surely, a so called King would not act like this. I understand not wanting to play for dysfunctional club like Manchester United, but Cristiano is an influential club legend and should be setting a healthy example; plus, he signed a contract and he must honor it. Even if Cristiano is actively working to get transferred off the club, he should still act professional in public. This is bad look for everyone involved and this does not help Ronaldo to move to another big club.

The 37-year-old can still score amazing goals and put butts in seats, but I think clubs are coming to the realization that Cristiano Ronaldo may not be worth the headache, and wages, at this point of his career. 

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