Erik Ten Hag ready to build his team around legend Cristiano Ronaldo.

Editor

Despite missing the club’s pre-season amidst talks of wanting to leave, Manchester United coach Erik Ten Hag has said he would build his team around top striker Christisno Ronaldo.

The coach also said he will retain the much criticized Harry Maguire as captain to rebuild his waning confidence.

According to The Sun Ronaldo currently trains alone in Portugal as speculation over his future rages.

Asked if the superstar can adapt to his pressing system, Ten Hag said: “Cristiano’s capable of doing that. In his career he has shown everything.

“I have set my demand. We want to play in a certain way. A top player can contribute and Ronaldo is an absolute top player in our squad.

The players dictate the way you play. Especially players who score goals because they are extremely important for a team. You construct your team around them.”

When Ten Hag was asked about triggering Ronaldo’s extension, he added: “I am well informed he also has an option.

“Yes [he could stay beyond next season]. Of course, I have signed here for three years but in football it’s short-term as well.”