Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Witters Sport-USA TODAY Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo teases he will play for Man United on Sunday vs. Rayo Vallecano

The alleged transfer saga involving Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo took multiple interesting turns ahead of the weekend. 

It was reported on Friday that Ronaldo was not included in the United squad for Saturday's friendly versus Atletico Madrid amid rumors saying he wishes to complete an exit from Old Trafford so he can join a team that will participate in the upcoming UEFA Champions League competition. However, Reuters (h/t ESPN) later noted that Ronaldo has since taken to Instagram to suggest he will be available for selection for Sunday's friendly against Rayo Vallecano.

"Sunday, the King plays," CR7 wrote on a fan page's post. 

Ronaldo didn't travel for United's preseason tour of Thailand and Australia earlier this month due to supposed "family reasons" and was joined by agent Jorge Mendes this week for talks with new manager Erik ten Hag about the future. Ten Hag has repeatedly insisted the 37-year-old isn't for sale even though updates claim Ronaldo has not changed his mind about wanting to sign for a Champions League side during the summer transfer window. 

Individuals attached to Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich have both poured cold water over any stories linking those clubs to Ronaldo. According to reports, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli have also ruled out signing the five-time Ballon d'Or winner who tallied 24 goals across all competitions for United last season. 

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