Cristiano Ronaldo did not expect this. The Portuguese returned to Manchester United this summer 12 years after his departure and had big ambitions within the club where he exploded. “I think this is the best decision I’ve made (…) In Manchester it’s a new chapter. I’m so happy and I want to keep making history by helping Manchester achieve great results to win trophies and big things to win.” Unfortunately CR7 failed in its mission.
Indeed, the Red Devils will not win a title this 2021-22 season. It’s been five years since they won anything. And even the comeback of the Portuguese star has not changed anything. Still, the 37-year-old did some of the work Score 18 goals in 33 appearances all competitions combined, including 30 as starters (3 assists). But since the beginning of the calendar year, he has only found the net 4 times. He scored a goal against Brighton on 15 February (2–0 win) and a hat-trick against Tottenham on 12 March (3–2 win).
Another incident against Everton
He was therefore silent during 11 meetings in 2022. That was also the case against Everton during the 32nd match day of the Premier League this weekend. Powerless on the pitch, the Funchal native was talked about after the meeting for his bloodshed against a Toffees fan. Reassembled, CR7 dropped the young supporter’s phone. An investigation has also been launched by Merseyside Police over this gesture of humour† For his part, the Manchester United player apologized on social networks.
“It is never easy to control your emotions in difficult times like the ones we are going through. Nevertheless, we must always be respectful, patient and an example to all young people who love the beautiful game. I apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to attend a game at Old Trafford as sign of fair play and sportsmanship”† The incident is therefore closed for the time being. But on the Mancunians’ side, this new CR7 slip raises questions. It is not the first time this season that his case has been discussed.
MU is ready to part with it
It’s no secret that the Lusitanian international is not a big fan of Ralf Rangnick. A coach with whom there have been many tensions. We especially remember the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo against Manchester City. The player, visibly injured, had returned to Portugal. The English press had explained that he had especially not dealt with the fact that his coach made him start on the bench. In addition, the fact that he did not attend the derby against the Skyblues had especially irritated the Manchester dressing room, which counted on his support.
A dressing room where his agreement with Harry Maguire isn’t very good either. Regardless, Manchester United have always supported their star. But the situation is reversed. At the end of March, the Spanish press indicated that the Red Devils wanted to keep their top scorer. This Monday is the Manchester Evening News reveals that the residents of Old Trafford are ready to unleash Cristiano Ronaldo. His return did not have the desired effect as MU is seventh in the Premier League and unable to play in the Champions League. The British will not have a trophy either.
But his fate isn’t sealed yet
Even if the attacker scores, his team will play less well if he is on the field, where he makes no defensive effort and throws his team off balance according to the MEN† The English publication explains that the Mancunians intend to part with it. It is also hard for them to imagine that the player born in 85 will stay if the club is not in C1. Even if there is a possibility to extend his contract for another year (he will be affiliated with MU until 2023, note from the editors), there is a good chance that he will leave this summer.
The farewell to his huge salary haunts the minds of the leaders, who also want to leave the opportunity for the future manager to arrive in a serene climate as CR7 will demand to start every meeting. But United have not yet decided on his case, as letting him go would mean parting with their top scorer and depopulating the attacking sector, which Martial and Cavani would already have to leave. Bad times for Cristiano Ronaldo, who has gone from dream to nightmare since returning to Manchester.
