Manchester United warned that keeping Cristiano Ronaldo may stifle three players

Manchester United have been told that they may be better off allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to leave despite his goal-getting abilities.

The Portugal captain netted 24 goals in his homecoming campaign last term, to finish the season as the club’s top scorer. However, some United fans feel his presence stifled the progression of others in the team, causing a lack of cohesion.

Ronaldo is not on United’s pre-season tour due to a family issue, but has told the club that he wishes to leave — despite signing a two-year contract less than a year ago. He is unhappy with the club’s trophy prospects next season and a reduction in wages.

READ MORE: Manchester United players in the dark over Cristiano Ronaldo's future

Former United winger Lee Sharpe says that he would be concerned about his influence on teammates should he stay, and that he “wouldn’t be disappointed” if he left. United have had a wonderful pre-season so far, winning all three friendlies without Ronaldo in the side.

Anthony Martial has come to the fore with three goals with Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho also catching the eye. Sharpe told 888sport that Martial can be “unplayable” on his day while backing Rashford and Sancho to have “huge” and “outstanding” seasons alongside new recruit Christian Eriksen.

Sharpe shared his worries over the possible stunting of these players’ progression if Ronaldo was to stay, and how his lack of pressing would disjoint the team under Erik ten Hag's tactics.

“I appreciate that the hardest thing to do in football is score goals, and he is one of the best at it. He’ll bring you that,” he said.

“But it’s what he takes away from the team in other areas, that’s what concerns me. I don’t think at the age of 37 he will play Ten Hag’s