Cristiano Ronaldo has huge role in developing possible successor at Manchester United

Manchester United’s response to recent reports on Cristiano Ronaldo’s future tells you everything you need to know about their stance on a potential exit for the Portuguese ace. The Reds are clearly in no mood to entertain any suggestions of a move this summer, with Ronaldo still holding a year on his contract.

Despite the clubs being linked with his services, the five-time Ballon d’Or is clearly still very much in United 's plans. Given his return last season, it’s easy to see why. Even at 37, Ronaldo proved to be the rare bright spark in an otherwise disastrous season, and things could have been much, much worse had it not been for his 24 goals.

But beyond his efforts on the pitch, Ronaldo also has a major part to play off it next season as United embark on a new era under Erik ten Hag. The new manager will no doubt be taking a close look at the club’s youngsters over the coming weeks in pre-season, having enjoyed plenty of success developing talent at Ajax.

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Key to bringing on the next generation will be the likes of Ronaldo passing on his experience. And in among the prospects he can take under his wing is a potential successor to his throne at Old Trafford.

Alejandro Garnacho has emerged as a star of the future, with his performances in the run to a first FA Youth Cup since 2011 earning him a spot in the senior squad during the back end of last season. Soon to be turning 18, the former Atletico Madrid star could have the chance to make his mark, and Ronaldo knows all about coming through at United as a teenager.

"The mature players, the older players can always help the young players," Ronaldo told Premier League