The Portuguese superstar was replaced by Harry Maguire after 71 minutes at the Brentford Community Stadium, and was disappointed to leave the field.
Speaking in a press conference ahead of the Reds' game with West Ham on Saturday (kick-off at 15:00 GMT), the club's interim manager said the decision was a tactical one influenced by our 2-2 draw with Aston Villa a few days earlier.
Rangnick suggested that while the 36-year-old's reaction was emotional, it was normal and understandable.
“I think we shouldn't make too much of a fuss out of it,” Ralf began. “I explained that to him, even during the game, when we had that little conversation after we scored the third goal.