CRISTIANO RONALDO will start the new season on the bench for Manchester United against Brighton.
New boss Erik ten Hag has left the star out of his starting XI for today's clash at Old Trafford – his first competitive match in charge of the club.
The Dutchman's short Red Devils reign so far has been dominated by questions over Ronaldo's future.
The star, 37, missed the tour of Bangkok and Australia for family reasons and has played just 45 minutes since then, in Sunday’s draw with Rayo Vallecano, which he left before the final whistle.
The Portuguese icon is desperate to leave the club to play in the Champions League.
But with a lack of offers coming in, the wantaway superstar and his new boss are in limbo.
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Cristiano Ronaldo on bench as Ten Hag takes charge of first Prem match
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It had been unclear if Ronaldo, 37, would be selected with his future up in the air.
CR7 is still a United player, after failing to secure an exit in this transfer window.
Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid have all passed up opportunities to sign him.
While boyhood club Sporting Lisbon and even Turkish giants Galatasaray have been linked.
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Recent reports suggested Ronaldo had "put the squeeze" on new boss Erik ten Hag to start him against the Seagulls.
However, the brave boss has shown his authority by only naming the icon as substitute.
Meanwhile, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez will both make their debuts for United against Brighton after joining this summer.
Get all the latest from the build-up and action from the game come kick-off in our Man Utd vs Brighton match blog.
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