“It was the second time, it cannot go unnoticed.” That’s what Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag said about Cristiano Ronaldo during a press conference this afternoon.

Last Wednesday – during the Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur (2-0) – the Portuguese entered the dressing room early after warming up. According to English media, Ronaldo refused to step in.

Yesterday it was announced he is not part of the squad that travels to Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

There was also a lot of fuss surrounding Ronaldo earlier this season. Along with some teammates, he left the stadium in a friendly against Rayo Vallecano. “Then I said that it really isn’t possible,” says Ten Hag. Now the attacker did not get away with punishment.

“We will miss him terribly tomorrow,” admits the coach. “It is only important for the image of the group. If you play a team sport, you have to stick to certain norms and values. I have to take care of her.”

forgiveness

Ronaldo himself expressed his regret via social media on Wednesday evening. “I started as a very young player. The older, more experienced players were always important role models for me.”

“That’s why I later tried to be a role model for the younger players at the clubs I played for. Unfortunately, this is not always possible and sometimes it takes time the heat of the moment the upper hand.”

According to Ten Hag, Ronaldo remains an important part of the team. The focus for the time being is entirely on the league game against Chelsea. “That’s what we’re all working on now,” he concludes.