MANCHESTER UNITED takes on Spanish giants Atletico Madrid this weekend in a mouthwatering pre-season game.
But talisman Cristiano Ronaldo will play no part in it.
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Why does Cristiano Ronaldo not play for Man Utd against Liverpool?
Cristiano Ronaldo will not play a role for Manchester United against Atletico Madrid as he is not trying to force a departure from Old Trafford.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has made it clear to the United hierarchy that he wanted to leave the club and refused to report for training.
However, United chose NOT to fine him.
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When will Cristiano Ronaldo return?
Manchester United’s tour of Southeast Asia and Australia ended earlier this month, in which Ronaldo played no part.
And his absence continued in their game against Aston Villa in Perth on Saturday 23rd July.
However, the Portuguese icon is set to appear in the second friendly against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, July 31, where he confirmed it by saying: ‘Sunday the king plays’.
Ronaldo’s future is very much in the air, but new United boss Erik Ten Hag is adamant that football legend is not for sale.
The former Ajax manager said: “We are planning with” Cristiano Ronaldo for the season and that’s it and I’m looking forward to working with him.
“I have read things, but what I am saying is that Cristiano is not for sale, he is in our plans and we want success together.
“I spoke to him before this issue came up, I had a conversation with him and I had a good conversation.
“That is between Cristiano and me, what I can confirm is that we had a very good conversation together.”