A verdict on whether Cristiano Ronaldo would accept a transfer to Man City this summer has been given, with claims that Manchester United fans will not be happy.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s relationship with fans is a mixed bag. Although many consider him to be a club legend for his spell at Manchester United between 2003 and 2009, many have reservations about his second stint at the club.
Twelve years after the Portuguese icon left Old Trafford for Real Madrid, he returned under the management of Ole Gunnar Solskjær for a £12 million fee from Juventus, scoring 24 goals and providing three assists in 39 appearances for the Reds.
But with Solskjær departing and Erik ten Hag taking over in the summer of 2022, the striker’s relationship with his new manager soured, and he was eventually expelled from United after slamming the club in an unsanctioned interview around 16 months after he rejoined.
Ronaldo now plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, where he has scored 88 goals in 98 appearances, turning 40 years old in February. For United, his record was 145 goals and 64 assists in 346 appearances across his two spells.
Ronaldo to City transfer verdict given
When United resigned Ronaldo in 2021, their action was sparked by rumours that he was close to joining Manchester City instead, with many aghast at the possibility before he eventually re-signed for United.
Speaking via talkSPORT, former United striker and club legend Teddy Sheringham explained he believes that Ronaldo would still jump at the chance to sign for Pep Guardiola’s men if he had the chance now, although he admits that this would cause United fans grief.
“I mean, Man United fans wouldn’t be happy,” Sheringham said.
“If the figures add up, Ronaldo would probably jump at the chance. He can definitely score a goal, can’t he? That, there’s no denying.
“Yeah, they looked a little bit lost without their focal point (in the Manchester derby), didn’t they? They didn’t have that same flow to their team, but I don’t know.
“Wow, I’ve not even thought about that, Ronaldo would definitely be excited by it. That would be funny. I bet if you offered him the chance to go to Man City, he would bite your hand off.”
Ronaldo set to sign new contract at Al Nassr
Despite Sheringham’s claim, it looks as if Ronaldo’s future will remain in the Middle East.
The Saudi side Al Nassr side have offered Ronaldo a new two-year contract, according to the Italain journalist Alfredo Pedulla.
Ronaldo’s current deal expires in June 2025, meaning he could become a free agent this summer if he chooses not to renew. The Portugal international remains prolific, netting 30 goals in 34 appearances this season, and is eager to extend his playing career.
In August, Ronaldo stated he intended to stay with Al Nassr until retirement, acknowledging it could come “soon, or in two or three years.”
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