The Portuguese legend was spotted outside the stadium prior to the full-time whistle after he was substituted at half-time, which Ten Hag described as “unacceptable”, and subsequently left Ronaldo out of the starting lineup in his first league game in charge.
Christian Eriksen led the road with Bruno Fernandes as an alternative, before the Dane dropped back into midfield when Ronaldo was brought on within the second half.
The forward’s introduction was not enough to encourage United right into a second-half comeback nonetheless, as an own goal from Alexis Mac Allister did give fans hope before the Seagulls saw out the win because of Pascal Gross’ two first-half strikes.
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