Manchester United have released their kit for the 2022-2023 campaign and used Cristiano Ronaldo as one of their poster boys despite uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
The 37-year-old striker was seen pictured wearing in United's new red and while collared shirt as the club showcased their new kit to the Old Trafford faithful.
Ronaldo's involvement in the campaign comes as a surprise considering he is debating whether to leave Manchester United this summer.
Manchester United have released their new strip for the 2022-2023 season on their website - with the 'authentic home shirt' retailing at £100.
The shirt comprises of United's traditional red and white colours but the new design has a series of additional features.
Ronaldo was due to report back for pre-season training on Monday but has been given compassionate leave by United for the family-related issue.
The player has so far missed four days of training and turned down the opportunity to join Manchester United on their pre-season tour to Bangkok on Friday.
A club spokesperson confirmed: ‘Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of the Manchester United party scheduled to depart for our pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia on Friday.
‘He has been granted additional time off to deal with a family issue. Cristiano remains under contract with Manchester United for another season and is not for sale.’
Ronaldo is said to be unhappy over suggestions he has refused to turn up, considering he had the club’s permission to stay in Lisbon with partner Georgina Rodriguez and his children.
Nevertheless, Ronaldo’s continued absence is bound to fuel speculation over his future after he told United he wants to leave and his agent Jorge Mendes held talks with several clubs.
Chelsea and Napoli are said to be two of the European giants interested in signing Ronaldo this summer. However, it will be hard for either club to match his £500,000-a-week wages.
Additionally, Erik ten Hag will be reluctant to let Ronaldo leave as he is looking to build the squad up ahead of the 2022-2023 campaign.
The Dutchman finally secured his first signing as manager as Tyrell Malacia arrived in a £14/7million deal from Feyenoord earlier this week.
Ten Hag is also in the process of negotiating a deal for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. However, progress appears to be stalling.