Cristiano Ronaldo says ‘the heat of the moment’ got the best of him after making his way down the tunnel during Manchester United’s 2-0 win over Tottenham.
Ronaldo was among the substitutes as United turned in one of their best performances of the campaign on Wednesday, sealing a win over Antonio Conte’s side.
The 37-year-old did not wait for the final whistle, however, heading straight down the tunnel with 89 minutes on the clock.
Subsequent reports have since claimed Ronaldo defied manager Erik ten Hag by refusing to come on as a late substitute in the game.
The Portuguese superstar has since been axed from the United squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League big clash with Chelsea.
In an Instagram post, Ronaldo has sought to explain his actions, vowing to keep working hard at the club to get back into the side.
‘As I’ve always done throughout my career, I try to live and play respectfully towards my colleagues, my adversaries and my coaches.
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‘That hasn’t changed. I haven’t changed. I’m the same person and the same professional that I’ve been for the last 20 years playing elite football, and respect has always played a very important role in my decision making process.
‘I started very young, the older and most experienced players examples were always very important to me.
‘Therefore, later on, I’ve always tried to set the example myself for the youngsters that grew in all the teams that I’ve represented. Unfortunately that’s not always possible and sometimes the heat of the moment get’s the best of us.
‘Right now, I just feel that I have to keep working hard in Carrington, support my teammates and be ready for everything in any given game.
‘Giving in to the pressure is not an option. It never was. This is Manchester United, and united we must stand. Soon we’ll be together again.’
In addition to being dropped for United’s game against Chelsea on Saturday, Ronaldo will also not be involved in first-team training this week.
A statement from the club read: ‘Cristiano will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s game against Chelsea.
‘Cristiano will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s game against Chelsea. The rest of the squad is fully focused on preparing for that fixture.’
