Manchester United legend, Jaap Stam has said the club and Cristiano Ronaldo may have to go ‘two separate ways’ in January.

Ronaldo reportedly sought an exit from the club over the summer but was not allowed to go with manager Erik ten Hag insisting he is part of his plans for the season.

The 37-year-old Portugal international was left out of the Red Devils squad for their 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Saturday being his punishment for defying his manager and for storming down the tunnel before the final whistle during the midweek win over Tottenham.

Jaap Stam, a former Red Devils defender said the Portuguese can still contribute to the side in the coming weeks and months.

“Maybe he is going to force something as well by doing so. I still find it very difficult because I like Ronaldo,” he told Premier League Productions.

“He is a great player, A great professional and a fantastic goal scorer and I still think you can use him at the moment.

“And if not, and he is not feeling well in doing so, not agreeing with the plan of the new coach, then maybe they need to find a solution where they go two separate ways and only go with the players that we have or bring someone else in.”