Although Ronaldo did not travel to Thailand with United, Ten Hag hinted that he is also counting on the striker next season. “Cristiano is not for sale and is part of our plans. I am preparing for the season with him there,” said Ten Hag.
The 37-year-old Ronaldo is under contract with United until June 2023, but alludes to a departure after the ‘Red Devils’ finished 6th in the Premier League last season and failed to qualify for the Champions League. “I spoke to Cristiano about the matter before it got into the press. We had a good conversation about it,” says Ten Hag.
Cristiano Ronaldo
ANP/HH
The coach did let it be known in Bangkok that he is still looking for reinforcements in midfield and in the attack. “We have a good team with a lot of potential. If there is an opportunity to strengthen us, we will seize it.” He did not want to say anything about the transfer rumors around Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. “I don’t want to talk about players who are not under contract with us,” he said.
During a press moment in Bangkok, Ten Hag also announced that Harry Maguire will remain the captain of United next season. “Harry is a very experienced captain who has already achieved many successes. That is why I never doubted this decision for a moment,” said Ten Hag.
Ten Hag will make his unofficial debut as United coach on Tuesday when his team takes on Liverpool in Bangkok.