Why Ronaldo Didn't Play and Wasn't Even on the Bench
Cristiano Ronaldo was a surprise absentee from Manchester United's squad for their Premier League match against Brighton on Saturday.
The Portuguese forward was not even named among the substitutes, with manager Erik ten Hag saying after the game that Ronaldo had been "ill".
There has been much speculation about Ronaldo's future at United, with the player reportedly unhappy at the club and looking to leave this summer.
Ronaldo missed United's pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia due to personal reasons, and he has only started one game for the club this season.
Ten Hag has insisted that Ronaldo is part of his plans, but the player's absence from the squad against Brighton has only served to fuel speculation about his future.
Is Ronaldo's absence a sign that he is on his way out of Manchester United?
It is certainly possible. Ronaldo has been linked with a move to a number of clubs this summer, including Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Napoli.
However, it is also possible that Ronaldo's absence was simply due to illness. Ten Hag has said that Ronaldo is part of his plans, and the player himself has not publicly expressed a desire to leave the club.
What does the future hold for Ronaldo?
It is difficult to say. Ronaldo is still one of the best players in the world, but he is also 37 years old and his best days may be behind him.
If he does leave Manchester United, it is likely that he will join another top club. However, it is also possible that he could move to a less competitive league, such as the MLS or the Chinese Super League.
