Erik ten Hag has confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo will return to Manchester United’s squad for Thursday’s Europa League game against Sheriff Tiraspol, but Raphael Varane will not play again until the World Cup.
Ronaldo returned to United training on Tuesday after being dropped for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The 37-year-old was punished by Ten Hag for refusing to be brought on as a late substitute in last week’s 2-0 home win over Tottenham and for leaving Old Trafford early.
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“It’s not difficult, I think we said everything and answered all the questions. He was out for one game and now he’s back in the squad as usual.
“It’s done, he’s back. Let’s focus on the game.”
However, Ten Hag added Varane will be out for the foreseeable future after suffering an injury against Chelsea at the weekend.
The France international departed that game early and in tears after stretching awkwardly while attempting to challenge Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Ten Hag says Varane will be out of action until the start of the World Cup in Qatar but thinks he can feature in the tournament.
“Raphael Varane isn’t in the squad,” Ten Hag said. “He will be out, certainly, until the World Cup.
“I think he can play in the World Cup, but we have to see how it develops and how his rehab will develop.”
In addition to Ronaldo’s return, captain Harry Maguire, midfielder Donny van de Beek and right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka are also back in United’s squad.
Ten Hag added: “Harry, Donny and Aaron are all in training and in preparation for tomorrow’s game.
“After training [on Wednesday] I will make a decision.”
A point against Sheriff at Old Trafford would be enough for United to qualify for the knockout stage of the Europa League, but they will be keen on a victory to keep the pressure on Group E leaders Real Sociedad ahead of the final matchday on November 3. That’s because if United finish second, they will compete in a play-off round against a third-placed Champions League side.
What’s next for Man Utd?
Manchester United return to action on Super Sunday, when they welcome West Ham to Old Trafford in the Premier League, live on Sky Sports; (kick-off 4.15pm).
United’s final fixture in the Europa League group stage sees them travel to Real Sociedad on November 3 (kick-off 5.45pm).
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Ronaldo returned to Manchester United training on Tuesday following talks with Ten Hag
However, Ronaldo and Ten Hag have since been in constant dialogue and the United boss confirmed the Portugal captain is available to face Moldovan side Sheriff.
“Yes, Cristiano will be in the squad tomorrow,” Ten Hag said.