Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo has denied claims he told broadcast cameras, "I'm not finished" after the team's 3-0 Premier League win against Brentford on Monday.
Ronaldo seemed to utter the phrase as he walked towards the tunnel following Man Utd's victory on Monday. Some supporters claimed it was a hint of his possible stay at the Old Trafford next season despite emerging rumors of his exit from Man Utd following the arrival of new boss Erik ten Hag.
However, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner left a comment on a fan account that shared the quote, "I didn't say that," which then led to claims he instead said "come on, finish" to the camera operator as the camera focused on him as he showed his appreciation to the home crowd.
Ronaldo continued to display a stable performance as he scored during Man Utd's 3-0 win over Brentford in the final home game of the season. The Portuguese international has now a total score of 18 for the season, with 24 in all competitions.
Meanwhile, United interim boss Rangnick suggested after the match, Ronaldo would remain on the team until at least the end of his contract in 2023. "I don't think why it should be a wave of goodbye," Rangnick told Stadium Astro. "He's got another year of contract and as far as I know he will be here next season again."
The striker also got full support from Rangnick despite his belief that Ten Hag will need to recruit two new leads next season. Rangnick said, "The way we played again tonight, why should he not be part of the squad and help the team?" Referring to reports of Ronaldo moving out when Ten Hag officially takes over, the interim boss said, "But this is a question you have to ask Erik and also Cristiano. So far we haven't been able to speak. Erik's focus is on winning the Dutch league, our focus was on our games."
"What I believe is that the club should bring in two strikers – real strikers. And Cristiano is not a central striker and he does not want to play in that position. This club needs two strikers although most important is not the position but the quality of who is brought in."
The lack of improvement under Rangnick during his six–month stay has seemingly left him frustrated in United's current position — sixth and out of the running for the top four in the Premier League.
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