Manchester United have confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo has been dropped from the matchday squad for Saturday’s clash against Chelsea.
This comes after the Portuguese star refused to enter the field of play during the midweek win over Tottenham Hotspur.
“Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s Premier League game against Chelsea,” read a statement issued by United.
“The rest of the squad is fully focused on preparing for that fixture.”
Ronaldo has since broken his silence saying “sometimes the heat of the moment get’s the best of us” and vowed to do better next time.
“As I’ve always done throughout my career, I try to live and play respectfully towards my colleagues, my adversaries and my coaches. That hasn’t changed. I haven’t changed,” wrote Ronaldo on his Instagram account.
“I’m the same person and the same professional that I’ve been for the last 20 years playing elite football, and respect has always played a very important role in my decision making process.
“I started very young, the older and most experienced players examples were always very important to me.
“Therefore, later on, I’ve always tried to set the example myself for the youngsters that grew in all the teams that I’ve represented.
“Unfortunately that’s not always possible and sometimes the heat of the moment get’s the best of us.
“Right now, I just feel that I have to keep working hard in Carrington, support my teammates and be ready for everything in any given game.
“Giving in to the pressure is not an option. It never was. This is Manchester United, and united we must stand. Soon we’ll be together again.”
