Portugal boss Fernando Santos refused to wade into the debate about Cristiano Ronaldo's future with claims he could be leaving Manchester United this summer - but told Erik ten Hag he remains the best player in the world.
The forward has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford following the club's disappointing campaign where they failed to finish inside the top four. It has been reported that Ronaldo was looking to find a new employer who could offer him Champions League football next term.
Ronaldo's commitment to United has been questioned and whether he will buy into Erik ten Hag's project with a huge rebuild underway this summer. The new United manager and the player have both squashed those claims but until the transfer window is shut at the end of the summer, rumours will continue to do the rounds.
Santos was asked about Ronaldo's future ahead of Portugal's Nations League triple-header but the Portugal gaffer didn't want to get involved in the situation claiming it's Ronaldo's choice what he wants to do next.
He said: “I’ve said it many times, Cristiano [Ronaldo] is the best player in the world. It is his choice [if he wants to stay at Manchester United], it’s a personal decision. It’s not for me to say if I think it’s right or wrong.”
Ten Hag says it's a no-brainer that Ronaldo will play an integral role at Old Trafford next season.
Asked if Ronaldo will be a part of his plans, the Dutchman said: “Of course.”
He was then asked what he can expect from Ronaldo, to which he laughed and replied: “Goals.
When pressed on the Portugal star’s leadership responsibilities, Ten Hag added: “I will speak to Ronaldo about that before I speak to you.”
Ronaldo says all the players, including himself, are excited to play under Ten Hag and reckon he can deliver silverware next season.
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He said: "What I know about him is he did a fantastic job for Ajax, that he's an experienced coach. But we need to give him time. Things need to change the way he wants.
"I hope we have success, of course, because, if you have success, all of Manchester is going to have success as well. I wish him the best.
"We are happy and excited, not only as players, but the supporters as well. I wish him the best and let's believe that, next year, we are going to win trophies."
