How Manchester United could line up this season if Cristiano Ronaldo seals transfer exit
Erik ten Hag's planning for the new campaign has been thrown into jeopardy amid reports claiming that Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave Manchester United in pursuit of Champions League football.
According to a report by The Times, Ronaldo, who is due to report back to the club's Carrington training base for pre-season training this week, has asked to be allowed to leave Old Trafford, subject to the club receiving a 'satisfactory offer' for his signature. United, following the emergence of the news, moved quickly to shoot the story down.
They have insisted that the 37-year-old is not for sale and that he will play a key part in Ten Hag's plans in the forthcoming campaign. Ronaldo returned to United last summer from Juventus and notched 24 goals in all competitions, proving to be one of the club's few success stories last term.
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Although United are in desperate need of new recruits, Ronaldo - should he stay - is assured of a starting berth under Ten Hag, leading the line in the 4-3-3 formation the Dutchman is expected to deploy. The Portugal captain was outstanding last term and proved that his age is nothing more than just a number.
However, following the news that he is considering his future in M16, MEN Sport has taken a close look at how United could line up on the opening day of the new campaign without him. The line-up also includes potential new signings, such as Tyrell Malacia and Frenkie de Jong, plus others.
Guaranteed to start the season as United's first-choice goalkeeper, De Gea deserves to continue between the sticks this forthcoming campaign. He was excellent last season, producing a string of fine performances