Ralf Rangnick explains decision to drop Harry Maguire for Arsenal clash as Man Utd hero Cristiano Ronaldo returns

Ralf Rangnick has explained his decision to drop Harry Maguire for the crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal as Cristiano Ronaldo returns for Manchester United.

Rangnick made five changes to the side that lost 4-0 to Liverpool during the week, with Maguire, Phil Jones, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford making way for Ronaldo, Raphael Varane, Alex Telles, Scott McTominay and Jadon Sancho.

Ronaldo missed the Anfield clash following the tragic death of his baby son but returns against Arsenal as Manchester United look to make up ground on their top-four rivals.

Red Devils captain Maguire has dropped to the bench after a difficult week in which he and his family were the victims of a terrifying bomb threat.

Asked about Maguire’s place on the bench, Rangnick said: ‘I had to make a decision between the three of them [centre-backs], only two could play and Maguire has had a tough week so I decided to give him a rest.’

On Ronaldo’s return, the interim boss added: ‘We spoke on the day he returned to training and he said he could train again and play again. It’s good to have him back in the squad.’

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With England defender Maguire only on the bench, Bruno Fernandes captains Manchester United, who will be managed by Erik ten Hag next season following the Dutchman’s unveiling on Thursday.

Arsenal, who responded to three successive defeats with an impressive 4-2 win at Chelsea on Wednesday, make one change to the starting line-up, with Cedric Soares replacing Rob Holding in defence.

Speaking before the Premier League clash at the Emirates,