[스포티비뉴스=허윤수 기자] The summer transfer window is now closed. However, the flames surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo (37, Manchester United) did not go out.
Ronaldo returned to Manchester United last summer. After 12 years, he returned to his parent team, which marked the beginning of his heyday, to rave reviews.
Even in the beginning, it was the return of a splendid king. Ronaldo saved Manchester United from crisis several times by showing off his unique solver skills.
But the bare face was soon revealed. Manchester United faltered, and Ronaldo might not hold the center. The gap with the rival team was significant, and even the team below one level might not guarantee victory. Ronaldo’s personal influence has also greatly diminished.
In the end, United finished the season with a poor result, finishing 6th in the league. He did not even qualify for the Champions League, let alone compete for the title.
It was a big blow for Ronaldo. The fact that he mightn’t play in the Champions League, as the holder of numerous records including the most goals in the tournament, including five wins, was like clear news.
Another reason that upset Ronaldo here was money. Manchester United, who failed to qualify for the Champions League, have cut salaries for their entire squad. The British media ‘Mirror’ reported on the 2nd (Korean time), “Ronaldo was angry when the team’s weekly salary was cut by 25%.”
Dissatisfied with Ronaldo, he sought a transfer. He has one year left on his contract with Manchester United, but he has set out to find a new team to play in the Champions League. Several teams, including Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Atlético Madrid, have been proposed, but none have been made.
Meanwhile, his position at Manchester United declined. Ronaldo, who might not play the pre-season normally, only started once in five league games. In particular, in the last three games as a substitute, Manchester United are on a winning streak and do not feel the need.
“Ronaldo, who wanted to escape Manchester United, missed the opportunity. But we will continue to weigh the options.”
He said that the fastest way to get out of United was to go to the Turkiye League. Unlike the major leagues, where the transfer window has closed, Turkiye explained that he can move immediately as it will continue until the first week of September.
He also mentioned a trip to Chelsea and Atlético, which seemed to have crossed the water. “Chelsea have signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (33), but owner Todd Bolly is a big fan of Ronaldo,” the media said.
Atlético are also strongly opposed by fans, but manager Diego Simeone said he was positive regarding the signing of Ronaldo. He also cited the signing of Luis Suarez (35, Nacional) from FC Barcelona as an example.
Another destination was the return to Sporting CP, the first professional team.
As the last two possibilities, he said companionship and separation. The media explained, “Ronaldo might continue playing for United or he might terminate his contract with the club and become a free agent.”
‘Mirror’ said, “In the end, time will tell Ronaldo’s future,” and said that neither side is still certain.
