Pundit and club icon Gary Neville said he was 'disappointed' with Ronaldo for creating a 'messy' start to Ten Hag's new era, while Wayne Rooney has urged United to sell his former team-mate.

 In the wake of an injury to Anthony Martial, the likely starter up front if fit, Ronaldo had declared himself 'ready' to play against Brighton on Instagram.

Jadon Sancho and Bruno Fernandes will play behind lone striker Rashford, with a midfield three of Fred, Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen. In defence, Lisandro Martinez makes his competitive debut, with new signing Tyrell Malacia on the bench.Cristiano Ronaldo is BENCHED for Manchester United's Premier League opener against Brighton as Erik ten Hag leaves the wantaway forward out in his first competitive game in charge

Cristiano Ronaldo has been left on the substitutes' bench for Manchester United in Erik ten Hag's first competitive game in charge. 

The Red Devils host Brighton in their first game of the Premier League season at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon

The ongoing saga of whether he will stay or go has undermined new manager Erik ten Hag in his first summer.

Dutchman Ten Hag labelled Ronaldo's decision to leave Old Trafford before the end of United's last friendly, after being substituted off, 'unacceptable