Manchester United’s statement was brief. “Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Manchester United by mutual agreement, and with immediate effect. The club thanks him for his immense contribution during his two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family well for the future. »
Humiliated in the public square after the explosive interview of his now ex-number 7, the English club was therefore quick to impose its authority and show his support for his coach, Erik ten Hag. Not very classy, this divorce is not bad news either for the Portuguese international. And even before the start of the winter transfer window, CR7 is now free of any contract and 100% available for its suitors.
Two tracks with Saudi flavors
But who still wants the fivefold Ballon d’Or? Last summer, Ronaldo sought to leave Old Trafford. In vain. Many snubbed him because of his age and salary. Others felt that recruiting CR7 was tantamount to making their team dependent on a 37-year-old player. Has the trend changed since then? In today’s edition, AS gave a large list of possible tracks (Chelsea, Liverpool, PSG, Borussia Dortmund, Naples, Sporting Portugal, Saudi Arabia, MLS) which looks very much like a copy and paste of the names mentioned last summer.
On his side, Brand claims that Ronaldo only has two choices. Two options with a common denominator: Saudi Arabia. The first track leads to the Premier League’s new rich: Newcastle. The Magicians are third in the table and their Saudi owner can afford such a star, even if the recruitment of the Toons has not been focused on flash. Finally, the second option leads to the club trained by Rudi Garcia, Al-Nassr. After confirming having rejected an offer of 350 M€ from the Saudi club Al-Hilal, will CR7 give in to the sirens of the Gulf this time?