Cristiano Ronaldo’s reputation in the red half of Manchester was hanging on by a thread following the revelation he had agreed on personal terms with the club’s bitter rivals Manchester City.
United always seemed to be the obvious destination for Ronaldo, should he ever return to the Premier League.
He said as much himself back in 2014, while at Real Madrid.
“Some players I am still in contact with because when I was there I created a good relationship with everybody, not just the players, all the staff around,” said Ronaldo.
“And it was like my second family there too, so I’ll not forget that the people treat me well. I’ll not forget. I love Manchester, to be back, I never know, you never know.
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“Of course I’m happy at Real Madrid, it’s my home, it’s my club but Manchester treats me unbelievable so we never know.”
But it was Pep Guardiola’s Citizens who appeared to have won the race for the Portuguese, before they later confirmed they had pulled out of the running.
Man United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was asked for his thoughts on the speculation linking Ronaldo to Man City before news emerged the Portuguese had agreed terms on a deal.
And it seems the Norwegian was dismissive of the idea, suggesting he knew the transfer wouldn’t happen.
He told the press in his country: “I do not read newspapers. I know how much nonsense is written there, anyway.”
Red Devils legend Wayne Rooney was equally dismissive of the idea, telling talkSPORT: “I think Cristiano has got a very good legacy at Manchester United and I know how proud he is as a player and a person.
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“I can’t see [him joining City], but it’s football so you never know. There have been a few that have done it but no one at Cristiano’s level. Obviously Peter Schmeichel and Andy Cole, but I just can’t see that as an option for him really.
“Financially of course he doesn’t need to do it. I think it’s more likely that it’s PSG he goes to.”
Ronaldo reportedly left training early on Friday after saying his goodbyes to his teammates and the staff at Juve.
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