Former Manchester United Coach Rene Meulensteen Dismisses Ronaldo Return Rumors

WHAT HAPPENED?

Cristiano Ronaldo made an emotional return to Manchester United in 2021 following his departure from Juventus. While he delivered an impressive 27 goals and five assists in 53 appearances, his second stint at Old Trafford was marred by tensions. A public fallout with then-manager Erik ten Hag in late 2022 led to Ronaldo leaving the club by mutual consent. He subsequently joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr as a free agent.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Speculation about a potential return to Manchester United has surfaced, fueled by Ronaldo’s close relationship with Ruben Amorim, the club’s newly appointed manager and his former teammate in the Portuguese national team. However, former United coach Rene Meulensteen believes any such reunion is highly unlikely.

Speaking to TribalFootball.com, Meulensteen stated that the 38-year-old forward has moved on, citing several reasons why Ronaldo is unlikely to return to Europe.

WHAT MEULENSTEEN SAID

Addressing the rumors, Meulensteen said:
“Cristiano Ronaldo back to Manchester United? I think that ship has sailed. There is speculation because of his relationship with Ruben Amorim, and it’s an intriguing idea, but I can’t see it happening.”

He added:
“Ronaldo could have played another two years in Europe, but he only wanted to join a team with a genuine chance of winning the Champions League.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR RONALDO?

Ronaldo remains a central figure in Al-Nassr’s ambitious Saudi Pro League project. With the league’s overall quality varying significantly, the Portugal icon continues to find the net with ease.

As of now, Ronaldo has his sights set on breaking the remarkable 1,000-goal milestone, a feat he is unlikely to abandon before retirement. Currently 96 goals shy, his focus remains firmly on achieving this historic benchmark while leading Al-Nassr’s charge in domestic and continental competitions.