Has Cristiano Ronaldo tarnished his public image this summer?
By Varun Aithal
According to reports published in various outlets, Cristiano Ronaldo is all set for a shock return to La Liga. The journalists have linked the five-time Ballon d’Or winner with a surprise move to Atletico Madrid.
"Cristiano Ronaldo has been linked with a shock return to LaLiga – not with Real Madrid, where he built a legacy that surely marks him as the greatest player in their history, but with fierce city rivals Atletico. (Via: Daily Mail)"
What is the current scenario?
Ever since Erik ten Hag has taken the managerial reins at Old Trafford, Cristiano Ronaldo has failed to turn up to any of the pre-season training or friendlies. According to Ronaldo’s representatives, “personal reasons” were the grounds for his absence. On the other hand, transfer journalists rumour the player is in pursuit of a new club that is featuring in UEFA Champions League 2022/23.
Manchester United had a torrid Premier League season in 2021/22 and failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League 2022/23. West Ham United losing against Brighton and Hove Albion on the last day of the 2021/22 campaign booked the Red Devils’ seat in the Europa League.
Despite the poor form of the club, Cristiano Ronaldo pledged his loyalty in an interview. He stated that he wanted to win a trophy with the club and make Manchester United great again. However, due to the absence of the Champions League, the chances of him staying seem to be low as the player is in pursuit of CL glory.
What has happened till now in the summer transfer window?
Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes is touring across Europe to find a club for his player. Todd Boehly, Chelsea’s new owner, was interested in securing the services of the Manchester United player, however, Thomas Tuchel did not give his approval and the move did not materialise.
According to the rumour mill, Mendes has knocked on the doors of Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona and Paris St Germain but none of the clubs are ready to shell out the money to secure the 37-year-old. As an ultimate resort, Mendes has turned up at Wanda Metropolitano to finalise a move for his client.
Ronaldo has been the love child of Real Madrid. However, if the rumoured move to Atletico Madrid succeeds, it would be tremendous damage to the public image and fan following that the Portuguese forward has gained over the years in the Spanish capital.