Abhranil Roy
Manchester United fans have now been accustomed to one particular transfer rumour every window — that Cristiano Ronaldo is looking to make a return to his old club. The Portuguese, who was sold to Spanish giants Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 has won it all at the Galacticos, both on an individual and on a team level. However, his time there has not always been the best one, with the fickle Madrid fans booing and abusing him every now and then. As another transfer window approaches, we hereby list 3 reasons why Ed Woodward must not bring Ronaldo back to Old Trafford at any cost:
1. His Age
Cristiano Ronaldo will turn 31 next February, and for even someone as fit as him, it means there will be a drop in intensity, fitness and focus in his game. In his 6 years at Real Madrid, he was given it all for the club, something that has seen him become the club’s highest ever goalscorer with a goal ratio of more than 1 per game, but it has affected his body for sure. The signs are already beginning to show, he has been far from his best so far this campaign. United already have a host of young players like Jesse Lingard, Callum Gribbins, Andros Perreira, Tyler Blackett, James Wilson looking to break into the squad, and at a time like this, bringing back Ronaldo won’t do them a lot of good.
2. His Ego
Let’s face it, Ronaldo’s ego made him what he is today, and it is the same ego which will lead to his downfall. The forward’s ego is a part of footballing folklore now, as it is put on display every time someone raises a question about Messi or the Ballon d’Or. It’s a package that comes with Cristiano Ronaldo, that everyone must accept that he is the best, that he must always be the alpha male of the squad. This attitude will not go down well at a club looking to return to the glory days, and certainly not with the senior members of the team, like Wayne Rooney. All in all, the team balance and harmony might be threatened if Ronaldo comes in.
3. Astronomical Wages
Ed Woodward will have to shell out an exorbitant sum to get Ronnie back, a price that even Arabian oil backed PSG can’t match. On top of that, he will also have to pay the current Ballon d’Or winner’s astronomical wages, which isn’t really worth it considering he could buy several young and talented superstars, like Marco Reuss at that cost.
Sorry Ronaldo, but we can’t, actually we don’t, want you back!
