Manchester United have downplayed reports that Cristiano Ronaldo is close to joining Sporting Lisbon.
The five-time Balon d'Or winner wants to leave the Red Devils before the transfer window and hopes to continue playing in the Champions League. United, however, will be competing in the Europa League this season after finishing sixth in the Premier League with their lowest-ever points tally.
Rumours circulated on social media that the 37-year-old was set to make the switch to his former club, Sporting, but the Daily Mail have reported that United believe that move will not happen. It was claimed online that ' Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of signing for Sporting Lisbon.
'The club are going to begin presentation preparations from tomorrow. Deal 99% done. Jorge Mendes worked around the clock to find a solution. Sporting squad have been preparing for Ronaldo's return for weeks.'
Moments after the report, Ronaldo posted an Instagram post, saying: "Keep working and focused", followed by a prayer and muscle emoji. Many thought that was a sign Ronaldo was on his way to Lisbon, but United remain insistent that he will stay at Old Trafford and he isn't on his way out of the club.
Ronaldo's stance hasn't changed as he tries to force his way out of the exit doors. Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid were amongst the clubs linked at the start of the window, but a number of sides have reportedly rejected the opportunity to sign the experienced forward.
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Jamie Carragher delivered his verdict on Ronaldo's situation after the striker was dropped for United's game against Liverpool on Monday. He told Sky Sports: "I think Ronaldo, the manager has an opportunity with players back to say no I want you on the bench.
"If I’m being honest, I’m not sure the manager wants Ronaldo around the place, he had to play him last week because it was so poor against Brighton. As soon as he’s got options he’s put him on the bench and in two weeks I think Ronaldo will move on.
Erik ten Hag did insisted that Ronaldo still had a role to play at United, however, despite being left on the bench for their biggest game so far this season. The Portugal captain will be hoping to start on Saturday when United travel to Southampton, with Ten Hag making it clear the decision to drop him was tactical.
"You see where can you have weapons in the game, we play on speed in front that’s quite clear. With Eriksen and Fernandes in midfield we can give a pass," the United boss told Sky Sports.
"Together with McTominay he also played a magnificent game then you can hurt the opponent. We can do it in possession, building, but in transition. Personally it’s always difficult but I have decisions to make.
"One I will say we have a squad and we need to use the squad, we play 50-60 games so from game to game we will see what we have to pick. I don’t have to mention Maguire or Ronaldo I have players and they will play in the future and short future."
