Manchester – Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel was dismayed by Cristiano Ronaldo’s conduct during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur and believes the Portuguese has become a distraction at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo walked down the tunnel with a few minutes remaining after being left on the bench once again by coach Erik ten Hag, who stated that he will address the player on Thursday.
It was the one unpleasant part of a night in which United dominated Antonio Conte’s Spurs.
Schmeichel told BBC Radio 5 Live, “(Cristiano Ronaldo’s) departure in this manner generates everything we don’t want right now.” “He would have understood that this would be a major story.
“It is the first time I can express disappointment in him. Typically, I support him because I understand his circumstance.
“The issue is that he is such a significant player and presence. Is it preferable to play him or let him go? I’m not sure.”
Ronaldo, who has scored 103 Premier League goals for United and is 37 years old, has started only two league games this season but has been a fixture in the Europa League.
After a shaky start, Ten Hag has revitalized United, and Schmeichel feels his development must be the primary priority.
United is in fifth place, eight points behind league leaders Arsenal but only one point behind fourth-place Chelsea.
“Now that Erik ten Hag has joined the team, he has very definite views about how he wants to play football. We require patience and understanding from everyone “Schmeichel stated.
I would argue that this is a letdown since we do not need such diversions.
Reuters