Ronaldo to miss Perth friendly

Football superstar Christiano Ronaldo will not be heading to Perth for this month's football extravaganza.

Manchester United confirmed on Friday afternoon that he would stand in the UK to attend to an ongoing family issue.

“Cristiano Ronaldo will not be part of the Manchester United party scheduled to depart for our pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia on Friday,” a Manchester United spokesperson said.

The Portugal star and his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez lost their newborn son in April.

United face Aston Villa at Optus Stadium on Friday July 23, with Crystal Palace and Leeds United to play the day before.

IMAGE: FILE