Sn a series of four consecutive victories in the Premier League, Manchester United fell heavily to earth this Sunday, humiliated unceremoniously by the rival honni of Manchester City (6-3). Inevitably, following the meeting, it was towards Erik Ten Hag, the designated scapegoat, that all eyes converged. A Dutch coach who some criticized for not having brought up Cristiano Ronaldo during the match.
For long seconds, the camera lingered on his face. As if she wanted to plant a last stab in the hearts of Manchester United supporters. Caught under the magnifying glass of the cameras, Cristiano Ronaldo remains stoic, caulked in his thick parka. However, behind the mask, a smile emerges. A discreet grin of satisfaction that says a lot.
However, at that time, the reasons to smile are not legion at the Red Devils. And for good reason, they are martyred, struck down by City’s rival and have not seen the light of day for long minutes. We only play the 75th minute, but the score is already almost surreal: 6-1.
Ronaldo, he will not step on the lawn, despite the five changes made by his coach. This Sunday, there are only three outfield players to experience such a fate: Elanga, Pellistri and donc Ronaldo. This is the very first time this season that this has happened to the Portuguese. Small snub for a big forgotten.
Obviously condemned by some for this obviously divisive choice, Ten Hag tried to justify himself:I didn’t want to bring him into the game out of respect for his great career. And then, Anthony Martial really needed minutes.”
A justification that is not really passed on to Mancunian supporters. Among the most virulent criticisms, that of Piers Morgan, English journalist. On Twitter, he paid himself Ten Hag quite vehemently: “Imagine relegating Ronaldo to the bench for the biggest game of the season. Then make your five changes and explain that you didn’t play him out of “respect for his career”. Ten Hag is an arrogant asshole and the way he treats Ronaldo is shameful.”
Atmosphere, atmosphere.
