Ronaldo was seen going down the tunnel before full-time
Cristiano Ronaldo left Old Trafford before the full-time whistle of Manchester United’s 2-0 win against Tottenham on Wednesday night.
Ronaldo was an unused substitute as Erik ten Hag’s side delivered one of their best performances of the season as goals from Fred and Bruno Fernandes secured a statement victory.
While most people embraced the jubilant scenes in the North West Ronaldo cut an isolated figure as he was seen walking down the tunnel in the 89th minute.
The moment Cristiano Ronaldo walked down the tunnel before the end of #MUNTOT…
Thoughts?#PLonPrime pic.twitter.com/SOfHJToKcG
— Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) October 19, 2022
Most had presumed the 37-year-old had gone to sulk in the dressing room however The Athletic have reported that Ronaldo left Old Trafford altogether before the end of the game. In fairness, having not played, he didn’t need to have a shower.
His absence in the changing room wasn’t missed though, with reports of a united and joyful environment amongst the squad as they celebrated their well-deserved win.
Asked about his forward’s behaviour, Ten Hag said he preferred to focus on how his team had played.
“I don’t pay attention today, we deal with that tomorrow,” he told Amazon Prime.
“I want to focus on this team, it was a magnificent performance from all 11 players. I have to correct myself, it was a performance on the subs who came on. A squad performance.”
"I will deal with that tomorrow"
Erik ten Hag gives his reaction to Cristiano Ronaldo walking down the tunnel before the end of #MUNTOT…#PLonPrime pic.twitter.com/A0QQwxcBLj
— Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) October 19, 2022
Ronaldo drew similar criticism after he left United’s pre-season friendly against Rayo Vallecano early, with his boss deeming his actions at the time as “unacceptable.”
He said: “I certainly don’t condone this. This is unacceptable, for everyone. We are a team and you have to stay until the end.”
Related links:
- Erik ten Hag gives best possible response to Cristiano Ronaldo tunnel walk
- Tottenham Man United player ratings: Fred and Bruno sees off Spurs
- Patrice Evra leaves pundits speechless after eating Old Trafford grass live on air
