Throughout his record-breaking career, Cristiano Ronaldo has been synonymous with Champions League success.
That’s why it’s surprising that at 37, CR7 is committing to Manchester United, despite big transfer exits, a new coach — and a failure to qualify for Champions League football.
Does he think he can play forever, or have his win-now priorities shifted?
United’s 58-point season was the club’s worst-ever showing in the Premier League, and Ronaldo left Juventus after repeated UCL frustration — but on this season’s evidence, perhaps he can extend his historic prime a few more years.
- His 18 EPL goals were his fewest since 2008-09 — but still third in the league.
- At a salary estimated at just over $33M, Ronaldo is the Premier League’s highest-paid player.
- New manager Erik ten Hag comes in with a strong reputation and could quickly lead United back to the Champions League.
That last objective could be difficult given the ascendency of clubs like Tottenham — not to mention the fact that city rivals and reigning EPL champions Manchester City won the Erling Haaland sweepstakes.
It also doesn’t help that United are losing at least three of their biggest names — Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard, and Juan Mata — this offseason.
Even if United recover in the transfer market, their hopes of returning to the pinnacle of European football could still hinge on their age-defying superstar.
