Ten Hag: Ronaldo back in Man Utd squad; Varane out until World Cup

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 has been ruled out until the World Cup.

Ronaldo took part in United training on Tuesday for the first time since 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.

However, Ronaldo and Ten Hag have since been in constant dialogue and the United boss says the Portugal captain will be available to face Moldovan side Sheriff.

“Yes, Cristiano will be in the squad on Thursday,” Ten Hag said at his pre-match press conference.

“I think we said everything and answered all the questions. He was out for one game and now he is back in the squad as usual.

“It’s done. He’s back. Let’s focus on the game.”

Ten Hag: Varane out until World CupHowever, Ten Hag also revealed Varane will be out for the foreseeable future after suffering a reported knee injury against Chelsea at the weekend.

The United defender departed that game early and in tears after stretching awkwardly while attempting to challenge Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Ten Hag revealed the France international will not feature for United before the World Cup – which begins on November 20 – but thinks he can still compete in the tournament.

“Raphael Varane isn’t in the squad,” Ten Hag said. “He will be out, certainly, until the World Cup.

“He will not play in this block for Manchester United. I think he can play in the World Cup, but we have to see how it develops and how his rehab develops.”