Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford might get undeserved Manchester United chance this season

It didn't take long for the new era to feel a whole lot like the old era.

Just when things should have been looking bright at Manchester United as Erik ten Hag welcomed his new players back to Carrington to begin preparations, those dark clouds loom back over. Even despite United registering their worst ever Premier League campaign last term, optimism was surprisingly high following the appointment of the Dutchman, but that is depleting fast.

The dread began to seep back in throughout a June which saw no players arrive despite the desperate need for new additions to the squad. That has now been arrested with the signing of Tyrell Malacia, with Christian Eriksen soon to follow, but the bombshell dropped by Cristiano Ronaldo hasn't allowed for much positivity to return.

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After initially appearing to have settled any doubts around his future by revealing his excitement to work with Ten Hag, Ronaldo has this week made it clear he wants to leave Old Trafford, just a year after he was given a hero's welcome returning to his former club. United's slow start to the summer transfer window and a 25 per cent reduction to players' salaries following the failure to qualify for the Champions League are two big reasons why the Portuguese is now looking for the exit.

Ronaldo has not yet reported for pre-season training due to 'family reasons' but United still maintain he is not for sale. Yet, just like at Juventus a year ago, when Ronaldo wants something he tends to get it.

His departure shouldn't necessarily be something to be terrified of, though. He may have scored 24 goals himself last season but United's overall goal tally decreased significantly. There's