Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to force through an exit from Manchester United may leave fans surprised, it is something that the club's hierarchy have reportedly been discussing for some time.
The Portuguese superstar has submitted a transfer request and failed to report for pre-season training. It is thought that Ronaldo wants to join a club who will play in the Champions League in the upcoming season, with United having finished sixth in the Premier League last term.
Though he finished as player of the year and top scorer, Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford has been far from a success. And their decision to reset with the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the appointment of Ralf Rangnick as interim boss led to a debate taking place over Ronaldo's future.
According to The Athletic, on more than one occasion, Rangnick told football director John Murtough and chief executive Richard Arnold that Ronaldo should be sold.
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