Bruno Fernandes Speaks On Ronaldo: "Cristiano Makes His Own Choices"

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has commented on Cristiano Ronaldo’s current status with the club. 

With Manchester United now deep into their pre-season tour of Asia, Fernandes took the time to speak to the media.

During his conversations, the Portuguese midfielder was quizzed on the current situation between his teammate for club, and country, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo, who has not taken part in United’s pre-season tour due to family reasons, has reportedly told senior officials at Manchester United that he wishes to leave the club. 

Answering a question on the reason behind Ronaldo’s absence on the tour, Fernandes said the following:

“I don’t want to be involved in that [discussion on Ronaldo]. Obviously we have to respect the decision of everyone. I don’t know what Cristiano said to the club, to the manager, but we have to respect his space.”

Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes play together for both club and country. (Alamy)

Following on from his first answer, the reporters would then ask Fernandes if Ronaldo staying was vital to United’s success, as well as if the forward is trying to leave the club.

"I don’t know,” said Fernandes. “Cristiano was our top scorer last season, he added goals, but it’s not on me, it’s the club that has to make the choices and Cristiano makes his own.

“I don’t know what’s going on in his head, [or] if he wants to leave." 

Continuing, Fernandes revealed the only contact he has had with Ronaldo was to check in on his family status.

"The only thing I asked Cristiano, when he didn’t turn up, was if everything was OK with the family. He told me what was going on, that’s it and nothing more." 

Despite Ronaldo reportedly intending to leave United, his attempts to depart the club have so far been in vain. 

With a quest to play Champions League football this season believed to be the main reason behind Ronaldo’s wish to depart the Manchester club, it has been reported that several of the bigger clubs around Europe have rejected the prospect of signing him.

The latest of those clubs was Atletico Madrid, with reports earlier this week indicating that despite their interest, Atleti were unable to sign him due to financial constraints.

Even with Ronaldo’s intentions to leave the city of Manchester for a second time, new United boss Erik ten Hag has repeatedly made it clear that he wants the Portuguese forward to remain at the club.

However, in Ronaldo’s absence, be it permanent or temporary, it has been up to Anthony Martial to lead the Manchester United frontline.

So far on the club’s pre-season tour, the 30-time capped France international has started in all three of United’s pre-season games, scoring in every match.

Additionally, there also remains the possibility that United’s frontline will still be reinforced this window, with United’s interest in Ajax winger Antony still being heavily reported upon.