The manager said it was “unacceptable” for him to go off early and it is understood several players joined Ronaldo in doing so. Ronaldo was photographed outside the pitch before the final whistle with Diogo Dalot also in the picture. While the latter was not in the matchday squad, Ronaldo played the first half of the final pre-season friendly. Ten Haag told Dutch media AD and Viaplay: “I certainly don’t applaud it. This is unacceptable. For all. We are a team and you have to stay until the end.” The coach did not name Ronaldo or Dalot, who watched from the directors’ box with teammates, or other players. Ronaldo’s appearance against the Spanish club was his first under Ten Hag, having missed the previous five friendlies and only starting training last week due to a family issue. The 37-year-old is keen to leave United to play Champions League football. With around four weeks to go before the transfer deadline, which club could be ready to pick up his wages of around £490,000-a-week remains unclear.
