Manchester United have been told that they may be better off allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to leave despite his goal-getting abilities.
The Portugal captain netted 24 goals in his homecoming campaign last term, to finish the season as the club’s top scorer. However, some United fans feel his presence stifled the progression of others in the team, causing a lack of cohesion.
Ronaldo is not on United’s pre-season tour due to a family issue, but has told the club that he wishes to leave — despite signing a two-year contract less than a year ago. He is unhappy with the club’s trophy prospects next season and a reduction in wages.
READ MORE: Manchester United players in the dark over Cristiano Ronaldo's future
Former United winger Lee Sharpe says that he would be concerned about his influence on teammates should he stay, and that he “wouldn’t be disappointed” if he left. United have had a wonderful pre-season so far, winning all three friendlies without Ronaldo in the side.
Anthony Martial has come to the fore with three goals with Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho also catching the eye. Sharpe told 888sport that Martial can be “unplayable” on his day while backing Rashford and Sancho to have “huge” and “outstanding” seasons alongside new recruit Christian Eriksen.
Sharpe shared his worries over the possible stunting of these players’ progression if Ronaldo was to stay, and how his lack of pressing would disjoint the team under Erik ten Hag's tactics.
“I appreciate that the hardest thing to do in football is score goals, and he is one of the best at it. He’ll bring you that,” he said.
“But it’s what he takes away from the team in other areas, that’s what concerns me. I don’t think at the age of 37 he will play Ten Hag’s pressing game or want to do that.
“And while he’s in the team he’s stopping Martial from shining or a young player getting a chance. So, I wouldn’t be disappointed if he left and I’d be slightly concerned if he does stay because he’s a little bit too powerful in the dressing room and that might stop other players from shining.
“It’s an absolutely massive season for Rashford. I’m a big fan of his and think he’s an unbelievable athlete with his pace and strength, and his feet. His composure in front of goal will improve as he gets older and gets more confident – he does need to score more goals."
On Sancho, Sharpe said: "Last season, he came into a team where the energy and confidence levels were flat and he got a couple of niggly injuries early on as well, carried over from pre-season.
"But this time, the manager’s style of football will suit him, and he’ll see a lot more of the ball in the final third, rather than getting it out of his own third. If he can avoid injuries during pre-season and if he can start on the front foot then he’s going to be an unbelievable player this season.”
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