Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed on Friday that Cristiano Ronaldo refused to come on as a substitute in this week’s win over Tottenham, stating that there would be “consequences” for his actions.

The early exit of the 37-year-old Portuguese superstar dominated post-match talk following United’s 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Ronaldo dashed down the tunnel before the final whistle, leaving Old Trafford in haste.

Following his tantrum, United announced on Thursday that the forward had been dropped from the squad for Saturday’s match against Chelsea.

When asked if Ronaldo had declined to replace him against Spurs during his pre-game press conference, Ten Hag responded, “Yes.”

“What (happened in the talk) is between Cristiano and me,” Ten Hag stated. I believe the (club) statement is also obvious.

However, Ronaldo “remains a vital component of the squad,” according to the Dutch manager, who is in his first year at Old Trafford.

The attacker also left Old Trafford early for the preseason friendly against Rayo Vallecano in July, prompting Ten Hag to stress the value of players sticking around to encourage their teammates.

The Dutchman responded on Friday when asked how he handles the circumstance, “How we did. The manager is me. I have to establish rules and principles and maintain control over them because I am in charge of this place’s elite sports culture.

“Since we work as a team, we have standards and ideals, and I have to maintain control over those. I warned you that it was unacceptable after Rayo Vallecano, but he wasn’t the only one. That applies to everybody.

Vladimir Chimaobi reporting, Obinwannem News writer / 22-10-2022