The uncertainty surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with Manchester United has been addressed after a former teammate hinted that he might make an unexpected return.
Ronaldo, who was with United from 2003 to 2009 and rejoined in 2021, had a dramatic exit in November 2022 following a dispute with Erik ten Hag.
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However, Louis Saha, a former United colleague, believes Ronaldo’s journey at Old Trafford isn’t over. Saha recently expressed his belief that the star could come back to the club in a coaching or managerial role after he retires from playing.
Additionally, comments from Ronaldo himself might shed light on whether United fans could see him back at the club someday.
After signing with Al-Nassr as a free agent in December 2022, the Portuguese forward discussed his future with the media.
“My work in Europe is done,” Ronaldo said during his official introduction as an Al-Nassr player in January 2023.
“I played at the best clubs in the world… and I won everything. I’m happy, proud to join Al Nassr. People don’t know about the level here. This contract is unique because I am a unique player. It’s normal for me.”
Over his 22-year career, the 39-year-old has played in four of Europe’s top leagues, scoring 498 goals for various clubs.
Ronaldo has also had a remarkable international career, highlighted by winning the Euros in 2016 with Portugal.
Since moving to Saudi Arabia to join Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has scored 49 goals in 47 matches and secured the golden boot for the 2023/24 Saudi Pro League season.
Despite Ronaldo’s remarks, Saha still hopes that he could return to United as part of the staff in the future.
“Cristiano Ronaldo has the passion and dedication to return to Manchester United one day. That could be as a coach or even a manager,” Saha told TVSporten.
“His second spell didn’t end the way everyone had hoped, and it’s understandable that this frustrated him. He didn’t see the same formula and didn’t see the passion from young players that he had been used to seeing.
“Cristiano will understand what he needs to do as a manager. I see no reason why he wouldn’t be a success.”
