Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed his desire to leave Manchester United. AFP Photo
Paul Kennedy
I’ve never hidden my belief that Cristiano Ronaldo is the world’s best footballer. In the whole ‘him versus Messi’ debate I opt for the Portuguese every time.
On the pitch, his ability and record speak for themselves, and off it, I just think he comes across as a fairly decent bloke, far more affable than the Argentinian.
But this week he is back in the firing line after expressing his desire to leave Manchester United, the club he rejoined less than 12 months ago.
I’ve no idea what goes on behind the scenes at Old Trafford, but it’s obvious that Ronaldo is not too keen on working with new manager, Erik ten Hag.
It seems the two haven’t even spoken face-to-face, yet the 37-year-old has decided his future lies elsewhere.
Ronaldo was anything but shabby during his second stint at United, scoring 18 goals in 20 appearances.
He is still box office, and would walk into most teams in the world.
I’ve read that ten Hag is planning on shaking things up in a big way at Old Trafford and will be introducing a far more pressing style of play, which may not suit the ageing Ronaldo.
So what’s next for the Portuguese star?
Chelsea are said to be interested, but that seems more fueled by their new owner, Todd Boehly than manager Thomas Tuchel.
City certainly have the funds to pay him, but maybe a move to United’s bitter rivals would likely be out of the question and the same can be said for Liverpool.
If his desire is to play Champions League football next season his only other option in England would be Tottenham Hotspur, but again unlikely after they spent large on Richarlison from Everton recently.
So maybe his next move is more likely to be outside of England. He could go back to Real Madrid where he was once loved, or possibly opt for Bayern Munich in Germany.
But maybe, just maybe, his time at the very top is coming to an end. It’s obvious he is in impeccable shape, but if he wants to still be the main man at any football club I don’t think he’s going to find that in Europe.
Here’s a left-field suggestion I think could be an option for him, and that would be a move to the US.
It’s not that he needs that cash, I’m sure he’s a few quid put away for a rainy day, so spending a few seasons somewhere like Miami or Los Angeles could be quite appealing.
Wherever he does decide to go next, he will for sure score goals. But really after such a glittering career, he has nothing left to prove.
And if he thinks the same, then maybe it’s time for the Ronaldo bandwagon to light up the MLS. VNS
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