Mason Greenwood’s contributions for Manchester United could come under the microscope again after his decision-making in front of goal left Cristiano Ronaldo visibly frustrated during the win over West Ham on Saturday.
Earlier this month, a report by the Manchester Evening News said Greenwood’s ‘apparent greediness’ in front of goal had ‘riled some team-mates’, who had been left wondering why Jesse Lingard and Donny van de Beek were not getting opportunities to play.
The 20-year-old forward has scored six goals in 24 appearances this season and appears to be a favourite of Rangnick, who started him on the right of his 4-2-2-2 formation against West Ham.
But as United tried to break down a stubborn West Ham defence there appeared to be cracks in the home team’s spirit.
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Ronaldo was visibly angry Greenwood didn't pass (Image: Twitter)
Twice Ronaldo appeared irritated at the youngster’s insistence on shooting from difficult positions, rather than passing to him.
First, Greenwood attempted to score from a rebound off a Ronaldo free-kick, before seeing a shot blocked when Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes – who had played the pass – were open in the box.
Ultimately it did not cost United as Rangnick’s substitutions helped bring a crucial win, but Ronaldo’s comments from earlier this month are now particularly eyebrow raising.
"If I give you advice, even if you are younger than me, if you don't implant that during your daily life, it will be difficult,” he told Sky Sports.
"I can speak all day with that person, but if it's not coming from inside of you, it's impossible. I remember when I was 18, 19, 20, some older players spoke with me, but I put that as: 'Cristiano, you have to improve – they know more than you, they are more experienced than you, they passed through many bad moments.'
"But other people, they don't accept that, if you criticise them. I don't say this in relation to our players, but in general. I have kids, I know.
“Sometimes when you're a little bit harder, they do the opposite, so you have to find the right balance to speak with them."
Ronaldo did not name-check Greenwood, but it appears the youngster might have his card marked by his veteran team-mate.