Following news that he has been axed from Manchester United’s squad for the upcoming trip to Chelsea, Cristiano Ronaldo says the heat of the moment got to him after he refused to enter the field against Tottenham.
The striker was seen leaving the pitch with minutes remaining in the Premier League game on Wednesday, resulting in coach Erik ten Hag and Manchester United announcing he won’t be part of the squad for Saturday’s match at Stamford Bridge.
Manchester United banish Cristiano Ronaldo from first team for Chelsea
It had been thought that he was frustrated at not being selected, but actually he had been asked to go on and refused to do so.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s statement
Ronaldo has spoken on the matter for the first time, and says he’ll do all that he can to be there for his teammates, and once again be an example.
“As I’ve always done throughout my career, I try to live and play respectfully towards my colleagues, my adversaries and my coaches,” read his statement.
“That hasn’t changed. I haven’t changed. I’m the same person and the same professional that I’ve been for the last 20 years playing elite football, and respect has always played a very important role in my decision making process.
“I started very young, the older and most experienced players examples were always very important to me.
“Therefore, later on, I’ve always tried to set the example myself for the youngsters that grew in all the teams that I’ve represented.
“Unfortunately that’s not always possible and sometimes the heat of the moment gets the best of us.
“Right now, I just feel that I have to keep working hard in Carrington, support my teammates and be ready for everything in any given game.
“Giving in to the pressure is not an option. It never was. This is Manchester United, and united we must stand. Soon we’ll be together again.”
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