Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to be fined at least £1m for agreeing to give Piers Morgan an explosive interview in which he criticized Erik ten Hag, the Manchester United board and the club’s standards.
The 37-year-old went nuclear during an interview with Morgan, which came just hours after United’s morale-boosting 2-1 win against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Ronaldo missed the win through illness, as he was also absent in the Carabao Cup win against Aston Villa on Thursday.
The Portugal captain was desperate to leave the club last summer but his wish was denied and he has been forced to play second fiddle to the likes of Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial so far this year.
Ronaldo was fined two weeks’ wages in October when he refused to come on as a substitute against Tottenham, with the striker deciding to walk through the tunnel before the game was over.
United are expected to do the same this time, with Ronaldo facing a fine of around £1m.
The club have refused to comment on Ronaldo’s interview, but it will be viewed with skepticism, especially after Ten Hag spoke of the club’s “togetherness” following the victory over Fulham.
Ronaldo most likely played his last game for the club and could be released before the January transfer window closes.