Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo should be declined from the starting XI, claims Paul Merson.
Ronaldo was the Red Devils’ fairytale signing this summer as he made a stunning return to Old Trafford from Juventus for around £12million, and while the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has made his impact felt with 14 goals, he has attracted criticism over his attitude and work rate.
According to Paul Merson he would like to see Edinson Cavani play up front instead of the Summer signee Ronaldo.
‘In terms of [Manchester United]’s team, I strongly believe Cristiano Ronaldo should be left out,’ he told Sportskeeda, via the Sun.
‘It won’t happen, but Edinson Cavani should take his place upfront with the likes of Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood in contention to play on the wings.
‘Something’s just not right there. I think a lot is going on behind the scenes and it doesn’t look good for them.’
Merson believes the Red Devils will be lucky to be play in the Champions League next season after a poor Premier campaign.
Manchester United is currently seventh, four points off Arsenal, who occupy the final Champions League spot.
‘You just don’t know what you’re going to get with Manchester United,’ he added. ‘They were so fortunate against Norwich City and were never going to beat Newcastle United away from home, so this will once again be a hard game for them.
‘I don’t see them finishing in the top four.
‘Manchester United are a long way off now and if they somehow manage to get to fourth, it’ll be a great season for them.’