Portugal boss Fernando Santos has backed Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to stay at Manchester United next season.
The 37-year-old has seemingly indicated he will be staying at Old Trafford for another 12 months. There had been some doubt over whether the five-time Balllon d’Or winner would see out the final year of his contract, having signed a two-year deal upon his return to United last summer.
But, upon receiving the club’s Player of the Year award, Ronaldo gave his clearest indication yet that he intends on staying put. The Portugal international insisted he is still happy at United, and is looking forward to working under new manager Erik ten Hag.
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"I was happy of course, to be back in a club that really raised my career so it was unbelievable, the feeling when I came back again, it was nice to feel the supporters, the happiness of them was great,” Ronaldo said. “I was and still am very happy to be here.
"And what I have to say to the fans is they are amazing even when you lost games they always support us, they always are with us, the supporters are always in my heart and it's the people that we all should respect because they are always on our side.
"For me, the most important thing is to try to win the games and try to win some championship or some cup but I believe that Manchester will be where they belong. As I say before, sometimes it takes time but I still believe."
His national team boss has now backed his decision. Speaking during a press conference, Santos seemingly confirmed Ronaldo was staying with United, and insisted only the player himself should make the call over his future.
“I’ve said it many times, Cristiano is the best player in the world,” Santos said. “The choice to stay at Manchester United is his choice, it’s not for me to say.
“It’s a personal choice. What I do know is that there are few who have the opportunity to play for Manchester United.”
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