Former Manchester United fan favourite Patrice Evra has called on manager Erik ten Hag to have an "honest discussion" with Cristiano Ronaldo after the manager dropped the Portugal international from his starting line-up.
Ronaldo finished last season as United's top scorer after returning to the club from Juventus. He has been used sparingly this term, though, starting just one league game and only scoring once all season, in the Europa League win away to Sheriff.
Evra played with Ronaldo during the forward's first spell at Old Trafford, with the pair part of the side which won the Champions League in 2008. And the Frenchman understands both sides of the situation but believes communication is key.
Ronaldo isn't the only first-teamer to be sidelined by Ten Hag this term. Club captain Harry Maguire has also lost his starting spot, with the manager preferring a partnership of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, and the England defender has played just 10 minutes in the league since having a torrid time away to Brentford in August.
"With those big decisions Ten Hag sent massive shockwaves," Evra told Betfair. Ronaldo has made several appearances from the bench since losing his starting spot, but United have gone unbeaten in the league without the veteran in the starting XI.
"Let's be clear, to put Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench is a massive statement, because Cristiano Ronaldo will think it's not fair, last year he scored like 18 goals, so in his head he will be like 'why am I on the bench?' He's right, but you have a manager and you have to respect his decision."
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Ronaldo had looked to leave United over the summer, after the team failed to qualify for this season's Champions League. However, with no suitable destination for the former Real Madrid frontman, he stayed in Manchester.
"I understand the frustration of Cristiano Ronaldo, but also Ten Hag was like 'I'm going to start a new era, Ronaldo is still in my plan,' and I'm sure Cristiano Ronaldo is in his plan," Evra continued. "Maybe, United need to suffer right now and they will need other players, but you will always need Cristiano Ronaldo, trust me, there will be a moment when we say thanks Cristiano, please stay, I'm convinced about that.
"I think Ten Hag and Ronaldo need to, if they haven't already, have an honest discussion. Everything that is happening right now is logic."
Ronaldo is currently away with the Portugal squad for their UEFA Nations League games against the Czech Republic and Spain. Upon returning to England, he will be pushing for a start as United prepare to take on neighbours Manchester City in the league.
