Cristiano Ronaldo’s importance - or lack thereof - to Manchester United came under the microscope again this week following their defeat at Newcastle.
For much of the time since his acrimonious departure, Erik ten Hag’s side have coped just fine without him. In fact, the 2023 vintage sans Ronaldo, has unquestionably been a better side than the team that included him.
However, the cracks have started to appear. Defeat at St James’ Park means it is now just two wins in their last six league games, with their iron fist grip on a top-four place loosening by the week.
