Cristiano Ronaldo’s future decided amid Manchester United links

It has been over a decade since Cristiano Ronaldo left Manchester United to join Real Madrid for a then world-record transfer back in 2009. But rumours have never quite gone away regarding a possible Old Trafford return.

During these years, a lot has changed. The Red Devils have not won a Premier League title since 2013. On the other hand, Ronaldo has established himself as one of the best players in history. But he is not the tricky winger that he was during his time at Old Trafford. Instead, he is much more of a goalscorer now.

The Portuguese legend joined Juventus in 2018 but his spell in Turin has not gone as most would have expected. While he has continued to score goals consistently, it is safe to say that he was seen as the missing piece of the puzzle in the club’s search for the Champions League. That has not happened though and the Italian giants have appeared to take a step back in Europe over the past three campaigns. And then last season, they ended up finishing fourth in the Serie A table.

Thus, there were rumours that Ronaldo could end up leaving this summer but now, it does not look like that will be case.

As reported by the Daily Star, following Juventus’ 3-1 friendly win against Cesena on the weekend, Pavel Nedved told Sky Sport:

"“Ronaldo will return to training on Monday and he will stay with us.”"

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Manchester United return does not appear to be on the cards for Ronaldo this summer

Even at 36 years of age, Ronaldo has continued to deliver on the pitch. He finished as the top scorer in Serie A last season and was a huge reason why the club managed to secure UEFA Champions League qualification for next season. Thus, it is not hard to see why a move to Old Trafford might still make sense but it does not appear to be on the cards.

Manchester United have already signed long-time transfer target, Jadon Sancho, from Borussia Dortmund this summer. On the other hand, Ronaldo has returned to Juventus training and there is a feeling that he will end up staying for the season.

Ronaldo has one year left on his contract with Juventus and will become a free agent next summer unless an extension is agreed. But with every passing summer, the chances of an eventual Old Trafford return reduce further.