Erik ten Hag refused to be drawn on whether Cristiano Ronaldo would feature for Manchester United when they host Brighton this weekend.
An injury to Anthony Martial has led to questions whether Ronaldo may start in the Red Devils' Premier League opener, despite his lack of action in pre-season.
CR7 continues to be a big topic of conversation in the football world after revealing his intention to leave Old Trafford this season.
This comes as the 37-year-old seeks to play Champions League football in the remaining years of his career.
Ronaldo was limited to just 45 minutes of pre-season action under Ten Hag, before making headlines for leaving the clash with Rayo Vallecano early - with the manager later confirming he wasn't the only one.
With a Premier League opener against Brighton coming up this weekend, talk has turned to whether Ronaldo will be involved against Graham Potter's side, particularly given the lack of depth currently available in attacking areas.
However, speaking in his pre-Brighton press conference, Ten Hag refused to confirm his plans either way with an agitated response to questions about Ronaldo's early exit from Old Trafford last week.
He said: "What do you mean? Now I have to point, those who left, they were many players who left, but the spotlight is on Cristiano and that is not right.
"So do your research and make out many players left, that was what was said. I don't understand what is the relation, he was part of it. There were a lot of players."
Pressed for a response, he continued: "What do you mean? I'm really happy, I told you before, we have a top striker, really happy he's here with the squad and we stick to the plan.
"I think we've said enough on it [players leaving early]. I said it's not correct. I'm satisfied with the whole team, we're working good, good culture and Cristiano is working really tough and hard.
"You mention it [that it is unacceptable], you correct them, then move on."
Asked if Ronaldo would start against Brighton, Ten Hag said: "We will see on Sunday.
"I'm satisfied with the whole team, we're working good, good culture and Cristiano is working really tough and hard. I'm really happy.
"We have a top striker; really happy he's here with the squad and we stick to the plan."
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