Michael Carrick made the audacious decision to rest Cristiano Ronaldo for Manchester United's match against Chelsea on Sunday evening.
"A few tweaks and alterations from the other night, to shake things up a little," Carrick told Sky Sports, according to the Manchester Evening News.
"Cristiano is perhaps our most memorable name, but it's just a gameplan and ideas." I actually had a wonderful conversation with Cristiano, who was fantastic, and we've chosen to go that route today. I'm looking forward to the game a lot.
"To be honest, it's just a decision to pick a team. I don't believe it need any additional drama. Everyone is OK, and all of the boys who have gone out of the team have been excellent around the place, including Cristiano, who has been fantastic with the boys, fully supporting them and ready to come on if and when needed. We're pleased with the team we've assembled. We've come here to try to win the game, as we do every time."
The score was 1-1. Ronaldo came off the bench in the second half, but his team was unable to produce a winner.
And he was not pleased with himself after the game.
Ronaldo did not shake hands with the Chelsea players and disregarded the United fans, according to various sources, including the Daily Mail.
He walked directly to the tunnel, muttering to himself as he made his way to the locker room.
Many experts, including Roy Keane, were perplexed as to why Ronaldo was not selected to start.
He stated: "Ronaldo has not returned to Manchester United to sit on the bench. So what's the point? He's a world-class athlete. His statistics since rejoining the club have been satisfactory. He has a few goals and assists.
"Ronaldo is not going to start shutting down businesses. However, there are instances when you must work around a celebrity. I've played with players who don't do what you expected. Eric Cantona, for example. But you forgive them because they are the players who will score the game-winning goals in close games." Ronaldo has to be in the starting lineup. He could have easily played today."
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