The Cristiano Ronaldo saga at Old Trafford is finally over. Following the 37-year-old's controversial interview with Piers Morgan, Manchester United have terminated his contract.
It’s fair to say that Ronaldo has tarnished his reputation at Man Utd, despite his past achievements with the club. But with one of the greatest players of all time now a free agent, the question on everyone’s lips is – where will Ronaldo go next?
There are no negotiations ongoing for Cristiano Ronaldo to join Newcastle, despite rumours. Been told talks are not taking place as things stand. 🚨⚪️⚫️ #NUFCCristiano will take his time to decide his future, now 100% focused on the World Cup. More: https://t.co/8c3MXvbdUE pic.twitter.com/mctCqkV77d— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 23, 2022
There are no negotiations ongoing for Cristiano Ronaldo to join Newcastle, despite rumours. Been told talks are not taking place as things stand. 🚨⚪️⚫️ #NUFCCristiano will take his time to decide his future, now 100% focused on the World Cup. More: https://t.co/8c3MXvbdUE pic.twitter.com/mctCqkV77d
Let’s take a look at the most realistic destinations.
A fairytale return to Lisbon appears to be the most likely move for Ronaldo at this moment in time. CR7 started his career with Sporting before embarking on his first stint with Man Utd in 2003.
That said, Sporting have been knocked out of this season’s Champions League and may not be able to afford Ronaldo’s wages. Could these stumbling blocks scupper a return to where it all began?
Chelsea looked set to make an approach for Ronaldo during the summer transfer window. However, Thomas Tuchel reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign the veteran forward.
Todd Boehly, Chelsea’s American owner, is thought to be keen on the idea of bringing CR7 to Stamford Bridge. But Ronaldo could struggle to adapt to Graham Potter’s pressing game.
Can you imagine Ronaldo and Messi playing in the same team? Well, you might not have to imagine it for much longer if PSG decide to make a bold approach to sign the Portuguese megastar.
Of course, the French giants already have Kylian Mbappe and Neymar in their ranks. But they are not afraid to fork out staggering sums of money. In fact, PSG are one of the only clubs who could afford Ronaldo’s demands.
Ronaldo won it all with Real Madrid. Between 2009 and 2018, he fired Los Blancos to four Champions League crowns, two La Liga titles, two Cop del Rey triumphs and three FIFA Club World Cup titles.
Although a return to the Spanish capital is unlikely, it is not off the cards altogether. With Karim Benzema out injured, Real Madrid could be tempted to re-sign Ronaldo to reinforce their attacking options.