‘This is unacceptable’ – Erik ten Hag condemns Cristiano Ronaldo decision to leave Manchester United game early

Ronaldo played the first part of the 1-1 draw with Spain, but was spotted by supporters outside Old Trafford before the full-time whistle.

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Ronaldo was not named by the Dutch manager. However, he criticised the decision to let players go amid reports that other players might have followed the 37-year old in his early departure.

Ten Hag stated that he did not condone the act to media outlets AD or Viaplay in his native Netherlands.

“This is unacceptable. This is unacceptable for everyone. We are a group and you have to stick with us until the end.”

Ronaldo was photographed together with Diogo, a compatriot from Brazil. He was not present in the match-day team but was there to support the team.

Manchester United also played on Saturday, losing to Atletico Madrid 1-0 in Oslo. The Rayo fixture involved largely a second-string team.

The club’s Premier League campaign opens at home against Brighton, with some uncertainty over the role that Ronaldo will play.

The Portuguese international returned to Old Trafford last year on a two year deal, but he confirmed that he would like to leave Manchester United.

“I didn’t speak to him [Ronaldo] after [the revelation that he wants to leave United],” Ten Hag said in early July while Ronaldo was absent from his side’s preseason tour.

“His absence is a personal matter. We are planning for Cristiano Ronaldo for the season and that’s it and I’m looking forward to working with him. I have read. [about his wish]Cristiano is not up for sale. He is part of our plans and we want to achieve success together.