Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford was supposed to signal the return of Manchester United as a Premier League superpower. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s arrival, coming after suggestions of a move to Manchester City, was heralded as the signing that would bridge the gap to their neighbours.
Less than 12 months on, challenging City is the least of United’s worries. A disastrous season has left new manager Erik ten Hag with an almighty rebuild task just to have them fighting for the top four again, and Ronaldo’s future is the subject of debate. That being said, United are adamant that reports of his potential exit are well wide of the mark.
The Portuguese ace was of course one of a very select few that could hold their head up high after last season. In fact, United fans would no doubt shudder at the thought of where they would have been had Ronaldo not been there to dig them out of various holes.
