Cristiano Ronaldo hit out at Manchester United and manager (Picture: Getty Images)

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane admits team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive interview criticising the club and manager Erik ten Hag does affect the players.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he did not respect Ten Hag and claimed individuals at United were trying to force him out in his explosive TalkTV interview with Piers Morgan.

Ronaldo sat out training with Portugal yesterday with a stomach bug just hours before the first part of his interview with Morgan aired last night.

Asked what impact the interview had had on the United squad, Varane, who is on World Cup duty with France, said: ‘Obviously it affects us. We follow what is happening and what is being said. We try to calm the situation in our own way, we try not to get too involved in it. When it’s a star like Cristiano Ronaldo, even more so we try to take it with distance, that is to say that we do not try to change the situation alone, we are part of a collective.

‘What I want is the best for my team so whatever the decision (by the club), as a player, we will accept it.’

Ronaldo admitted he was ‘close’ to joining Manchester City in 2021, in a segment broadcast last night.

More: Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo aims brutal dig at Man Utd youngsters and compares them to 12-year-olds

Cristiano Ronaldo names the one Man Utd team-mate who can emulate his longevity

Cristiano Ronaldo misses Portugal training as boss Fernando Santos explains his absence

‘But as you know, my history in Manchester United, your heart, you’re feeling the way that you did before, makes the difference,’ the 37-year-old said.

‘And of course, as well, Sir Alex Ferguson. He said to me “it’s impossible for you to come to Manchester City”. And I say “okay, boss”.’