Portuguese megastar Cristiano Ronaldo decided to leave Old Trafford, as the club results declined in the current season 2022-2023, and the lack of reliance on it mainly by Dutch coach Eric Ten Hag in most matches. Ronaldo was clinching for quitting the Red Devils in the summer transfer window but failed to secure a move away, despite the efforts of super agent Jorge Mendes. It's left Ronaldo as a benchwarmer for the Red Devils, with Ten Hag handing him mere two starts since United's 4-0 humiliation at Brentford on August 13 - his only starting berth in seven Premier League games this season. Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure whilst sitting on the bench during the Red Devils' 6-3 mauling at the hands of bitter rivals City in Sunday's Manchester derby. Despite making all of his five available substitutions, Ten Hag opted not to bring Ronaldo on "out of respect" for his "big career." The British newspaper, “Telegraph” reported that Ronaldo could leave Manchester United in the winter transfer market next January. The Portugal captain, who's said to have remained highly professional during his predicament, hopes that a strong showing at the World Cup in Qatar this winter will tempt a Champions League club to sign him when the window reopens shortly after the tournament's conclusion. If a suitable offer arrives, then it's believed that Old Trafford chiefs will wave goodbye to their legendary No.7 after less than 18 months back in Manchester.
Back then, the Dutch coach was keen to keep the five-time Ballon d'Or winner for his maiden campaign in the Old Trafford hot seat. Now, though, Ten Hag is ready to sanction his exit, with Ronaldo eyeing a January departure, according to the Telegraph.