Aheed Abrar
Bruno Fernandes wishes Cristiano Ronaldo the best as Portugal star departs Manchester United
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has wished Portugal teammate and compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo the best for his future after the 37-year-old’s exit from the Red Devils.
The Old Trafford side announced the former Real Madrid star’s departure from the club recently. It brought to an end the forward’s second stint with the Manchester-based club after his arrival over a year ago.
Speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Fernandes was asked about Ronaldo’s departure and the Old Trafford side’s playmaker has expressed his delight at having had the opportunity to play at the club level with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“It was good for me while it lasted. Now Cristiano has taken a different decision for his career and his family and we have to respect that.
“I haven’t discussed the topic with Cris. We’re all focused on the national team and the World Cup. I don’t feel uncomfortable. I don’t have to pick a side. It was a dream come true to play with Cristiano [at United] but nothing lasts forever.”
The two superstars are currently with Fernando Santos’ team in Qatar for the World Cup. And both the midfielder and forward are key members of the Portuguese squad.
Thus, while Fernandes has been handed the captain’s armband in the absence of Harry Maguire by Erik ten Hag, it is understandable that the 28-year-old does not want to take a stand against the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
The former Sporting CP star gave a diplomatic answer about the 37-year-old. And evidently, no player would want to stir up controversy in their national side ahead of a prestigious international tournament.
Ronaldo’s homecoming turned out to be bitter-sweet in the end. Upon his return to Manchester from Juventus in the summer of 2021, many fans had high expectations from the 37-year-old. And he did not fail to deliver.
However, the Portuguese icon’s form had severely dipped for United in the current campaign. And in the end, the wise move was for both parties to part ways.
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After the World Cup, Fernandes will return to the Old Trafford side in a bid to take the Manchester-based club back to where they belong. However, it remains to be seen where Ronaldo will end up plying his trade in January.
