The Cristiano Ronaldo contract clause that is causing big issues at Man United

Contract clauses can often have a negative impact on a player, and Manchester United’s failure to make the Champions League has had massive implications for Cristiano Ronaldo.

When the Portuguese sensation first left the club in 2009, fans wiped their tears and said a heartbreaking goodbye. One of the best players in the world, in his prime, was departing Old Trafford.

Fast forward 14 years, however, and there is a slightly different feeling surrounding his potential departure.

In 2021/22, the forward continued to prove his ability to hit the back of the net. He scored 18 times in the Premier League.

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However, according to reports, Ronaldo has wanted out since the moment the club failed to secure a place in Europe’s premier competition.

Throughout the transfer window, the player has reportedly been desperate to try and secure a move elsewhere. Initially, Erik ten Hag fought back and wanted to keep him at the club. However, the Dutchman dropped Ronaldo to the bench for the last two games, and reports claim that the six-time Ballon d’Or winner is having a negative influence on the squad.

An article in The Times showcases the legend’s frustration since making his grand return last summer. Ronaldo claims he was sold an unrealistic dream of winning significant honours. But he’s even more angry about his current financial situation.

Cristiano Ronaldo angered by contract clause

Due to the club’s showings last season, every player had to accept a 25 per cent pay cut due to a clause that existed in their deals if they missed out on the Champions League. This included Ronaldo, who joined United from Juventus last summer.

An enraged Ronaldo has hit back (as per The Mirror) against his wage reduction. He’s made the case that he bears no responsibility for the side missing out on a top-four finish – having bagged an impressive 18 goals in the Premier League.

Due to his position as the team’s biggest earner, the pay drop would significantly impact him more than any other squad member. And it is believed that this is one of the major sources of his frustration about his current status at Manchester United.

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