Erik ten Hag has reiterated that Cristiano Ronaldo is part of his plans. He also said the Portuguese forward could extend his contract.
The Manchester United manager has ruled out the possibility of Ronaldo leaving this summer, despite the player being believed to have asked to leave.
Ten Hag said he plans to have the 37-year-old in his squad next season. When asked if he could stay at the club beyond his contract, the Dutchman said that is a possibility.
“I am well informed. He also has an option [to extend his contract until 2024],” the 52-year-old said.
Ronaldo is not training with the Red Devils and the squad in Melbourne after being given permission by the club not to travel on the pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia, said to be for personal reasons.
Ten Hag admitted that he does not know when he will be back, but has not ruled out the possibility that “CR7” will be involved in the first game of the new Premier League season, against Brighton on August 7.
“He is training. I think we all know that Ronaldo is a top professional and he will be fit. This is the last concern I have,” added the former Ajax coach, who when asked if Ronaldo will join the training sessions at Carrington, said: “I can’t tell you. Not yet.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored 24 goals last season but remained at the center of a debate over whether he could play in a rebuilt Red Devils side.
Ten Hag wants his team to press effectively but said he has no worries if Ronaldo can do the job.
“I think Cristiano is capable of doing that. In his career he has shown everything. I have placed my request. We want to play a certain way. A top-level player can contribute and Ronaldo is an absolute top player in our team,” said Erik ten Hag.
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to be linked with a move away from “Old Trafford”, while he has not yet definitively confirmed his future.
The former striker of Real Madrid and Juventus has a valid contract until June 30, 2023, while there is also the option to extend it for another year.