More stories

  • in

    Where it all went wrong for Cristiano Ronaldo at Man Utd, from club’s lack of hunger to becoming diva behind the scenes

    IT WAS NEVER supposed to end like this.A player so loved by Manchester United fans, now with his reputation tainted.
    Cristiano Ronaldo re-joined Manchester United in 2021Credit: Getty
    It all started well for Ronaldo as he netted on his second debut against NewcastleCredit: AFP
    However it boiled over when Ronaldo stormed down the tunnel at Old Trafford after refusing to come on as a substituteCredit: Rex
    The Portuguese attacker then slammed the club in the interview with Piers Morgan
    Not with everyone.
    Some will claim that his outspoken interview touched at the heart of what has been wrong with the club.
    Equally, they will never forget a contribution, forget that, much more than just a contribution, to some of the greatest days the club has ever had.
    A record of 145 goals in 346 games with a cabinet including three Premier Leagues and a Champions League puts you down in legend.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    And he was, he is, which makes it all the more sad that at the start of this, his last World Cup at 37 years old his effective sacking by Manchester United is announced.
    They could not have done anything else.
    His outspoken interview on TalkTV slaughtering the club from top to bottom had to be acted on.
    United checked legally they could get rid, and the green light was given. Thank you and adeus.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    The core of the problem was that the Ronaldo and the club that parted ways in 2009 and the Ronaldo and club that got back together again was very different, on both sides.
    Ronaldo was still a force, of sorts, 24 goals last season proved that, but not the same force. More

  • in

    Man Utd lead Cody Gakpo transfer chase and can land Holland’s World Cup star for £43m as Cristiano Ronaldo replacement

    MANCHESTER UNITED are leading the transfer race for PSV Eindhoven star Cody Gakpo, reports suggest.Gakpo, 23, enjoyed a flying start at the 2022 World Cup as he netted the opener in Holland’s 2-0 victory over Senegal on Monday.
    Manchester United are leading the transfer chase for PSV Eindhoven star Cody GakpoCredit: Rex
    The winger keeps raising his stock while under the watchful eye of several Premier League clubs, such as United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Leeds, Southampton and West Ham.
    According to CalcioMercato, however, the Red Devils are “above all” else in the ongoing bidding war for the Netherlands international.
    The same report suggests the Manchester giants have “taken more information” than their fellow suitors.
    That means United could land the forward as early as the January transfer window.
    Read More on Man Utd
    Gakpo would cost a minimum of £43million to move after he returns from the World Cup.
    United will be looking for an attacker to replace club legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
    The Red Devils terminated Ronaldo’s contract on Tuesday after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s bombshell interview with SunSport columnist Piers Morgan.
    And Gakpo could be a perfect successor as he has stood out this season with PSV in both the Eredivisie and the Europa League.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    The Dutchman has amassed a staggering 13 goals and 17 assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.
    Gakpo has also been previously linked with a blockbuster move to Real Madrid. More

  • in

    Man Utd owners put club up for sale as hated Glazers explore £9BILLION takeover after unpopular 17-year reign

    MANCHESTER UNITED could finally be sold by the Glazers after 17 years of ownership.Red Devils supporters have been calling for a takeover for a number of years.
    The Glazers could be set to sell after 17 years at Old TraffordCredit: Getty
    Manchester United fans have been protesting against the Glazers for yearsCredit: Getty
    They have held protests before every home game so far this seasonCredit: Reuters
    And now they may get their wish as the Glazers have announced they are “explore strategic alternatives for the club”.
    The controversial American owners are prepared to sell the club outright, with a deal expected to be worth around £9BILLION.
    That would make United the most valuable sports team in the world, eclipsing the Dallas Cowboys who are said to be worth £7.23bn.
    A statement from the club read: “Manchester United plc, one of the most successful and historic sports clubs in the world, announces today that the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) is commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    “The process is designed to enhance the club’s future growth, with the ultimate goal of positioning the club to capitalize on opportunities both on the pitch and commercially.
    “As part of this process, the Board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the Company.
    “This will include an assessment of several initiatives to strengthen the club, including stadium and infrastructure redevelopment, and expansion of the club’s commercial operations on a global scale, each in the context of enhancing the long-term success of the club’s men’s, women’s and academy teams, and bringing benefits to fans and other stakeholders.”
    Avram and Joel Glazer added: “The strength of Manchester United rests on the passion and loyalty of our global community of 1.1 billion fans and followers.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    “As we seek to continue building on the Club’s history of success, the Board has authorized a thorough evaluation of strategic alternatives.
    “We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximizes the significant growth opportunities available to the Club today and in the future.
    “Throughout this process we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders.”
    If the Glazers do sell, it would end a decade-long feud between the family and the club’s supporters.
    United have not won the Premier League since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013, or any form of trophy since 2017.
    Yet the Glazers are in line to make a huge profit on the club they purchased in a deal worth £790m back in 2005.

    The Premier League clubs has increased hugely in that time.
    Chelsea were sold for £4.25bn in the summer while Liverpool are on the market for a similar sum as their own American owners look to sell up.
    But there is one option which would see the Glazers remain at the helm.
    That is if they opt for a partial sale that raises funds for a redevelopment of Old Trafford but maintains the Glazers’ ownership.
    They bought the club way back in 2005 in a deal worth £790m.
    Britain’s richest man, United fan Sir Jim Ratcliffe, will likely be interested in pursuing a deal.
    Ratcliffe runs multi-billion-pound chemicals giant Ineos, which already owns French side Nice and Swiss club Lausanne – plus a third of Formula One team Mercedes – and was a late entrant in the running to buy Chelsea.
    Last month he admitted his love for United, but insisted he had been told the Glazers did not want to sell.
    He said: “I’m a lifelong Manchester United fan. I was there in 1999 for the most remarkable match of all time in Barcelona. So, you know, the club is deeply etched in my mind.
    “But Manchester United is owned by the Glazer family. I have met Joel and Avram, who are the nicest people, proper gentlemen, and they don’t want to sell.
    “The club is owned by the six children of the father, Malcolm, and they don’t want to sell it.
    Read More on The Sun
    “If it had been for sale in the summer, yes, we would probably have had a go, following on from the Chelsea thing.
    “But we can’t sit around hoping that one day United will become available.” More

  • in

    Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes ‘set to reopen Chelsea transfer talks’ after Man Utd exit with Todd Boehly keen

    CHELSEA are reportedly set to open talks to sign Cristiano Ronaldo after he was axed by Manchester United.The Portuguese attacker saw his contract terminated by the Red Devils following his interview with Piers Morgan.
    Cristiano Ronaldo is a free agent after leaving Man UtdCredit: Reuters
    Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes is reportedly set to open talks with ChelseaCredit: Reuters
    Now a free agent the 37-year-old will be on the lookout for his next club.
    And he may not have to wait that long as Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is keen on bringing him to Stamford Bridge according to CBS Sports Golazo.
    Reporter Ben Jacobs tweeted: “Todd Boehly sees the appeal of Cristiano Ronaldo.”
    He also revealed that Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes is will “offer” him to Chelsea again.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    However, a move remains “complicated” as new manager Graham Potter is “less convinced” about the idea of signing him.
    A move for the attacker will require the backing from Potter, who is still adjusting the side to fit his style.

    Chelsea spent big in the summer bringing in over £200million worth of talent, but they have yet to make a positive impact on the team.
    The Blues are currently eighth in the Premier League having lost three and drawn two of their last five games.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    Ronaldo has also been linked with a move to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon and with clubs in the MLS.
    Piers Morgan also has suggested that Arsenal should try and sign him.
    He is currently on international duty with Portugal at the World Cup in Qatar. More

  • in

    Wayne Rooney breaks silence on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man Utd axing after war of words with former team-mate

    WAYNE ROONEY has broken his silence on Cristiano Ronaldo’s stunning Manchester United axe.The Portuguese forward has departed Old Trafford for a second time after the Red Devils ripped up his contract on Tuesday.
    Wayne Rooney has had his say on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man Utd exitCredit: Reuters
    The duo have been engaged in a recent war of words
    Ronaldo blasted United in a bombshell interview with Piers Morgan last week, leading to tonight’s decision by the club.
    But Ronnie also took aim at Rooney following previous comments made by the Englishman over his conduct, claiming Wazza was JEALOUS of his longevity and LOOKS.
    Rooney has now had his say over Ronaldo’s United departure.
    The ex-England captain reckons the announcement was inevitable following Ronnie’s talks with Piers.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    But rather than blasting Ronaldo again, Rooney instead called him a “fantastic servant” to United before wishing him the best.
    Speaking on live TV with Sports 18, Roo said: “Am I surprised? No.
    “There was no other choice but that’s a shame because he’s been a fantastic servant to the club.
    “I wish him the best wherever he goes.”
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    Rooney’s comments come after he took aim at Ronaldo several times this season.
    After the Portuguese ace refused to come on as a sub against Spurs, Rooney said: “The things he has done from the start of season, it is not acceptable for Manchester United.”
    But Rooney’s thoughts only served to infuriate Ronaldo.

    He fired back in his Piers Morgan interview: “I don’t know why he criticises me so badly… probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing at a high level.
    “I’m not going to say that I’m looking better than him. Which is true…”
    It feels like the right time to seek a new challengeCristiano Ronaldo
    Ronaldo’s second spell at United came to an end on Wednesday, with the club releasing an abrupt statement.
    It read: “Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.
    “The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family well for the future.
    “Everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team’s progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch.”
    Ronaldo himself released a statement too, which read: “Following talks with Manchester United, we’ve mutually agreed to end our contract.
    Read More on The Sun
    “I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change.
    “It feels like the right time to seek a new challenge. I wish Man Utd all the best”. More

  • in

    Fans convinced Cristiano Ronaldo has taken one final swipe at Man Utd with new luxury watch design

    FANS are convinced Cristiano Ronaldo has taken one final swipe at Manchester United.The 37-year-old has showed off a new £124,000 luxury watch design depicting the famous header he scored AGAINST the Red Devils while playing for Real Madrid.
    Cristiano Ronaldo revealed a £124,000 watch design at the same time his Man Utd deal was axedCredit: Jacob & Co.
    The stunning timepiece depicts Ronaldo’s famous 9ft headed goal for Real Madrid against UnitedCredit: Jacob & Co.
    The timing couldn’t be worse, with United ripping up Ronaldo’s contract as the watch was released.
    And all eyes are now aimed at Portugal’s World Cup camp on two days before their group stage opener against Ghana.
    Ronaldo, 37, left club chiefs stunned when he blasted the Red Devils in an explosive interview with Piers Morgan last week.
    SunSport revealed United had decided to terminate Ronnie’s deal as a result of his bombshell talks.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    And the news was confirmed in a blunt statement at 5.30pm on Tuesday, with United bidding farewell to one of their greatest players for a second time.
    However, it appears Ronaldo has aimed one final swipe at Old Trafford.
    Around the same time, Ronnie has released a brand new watch in collaboration with Jacob & Co.
    The luxury timepiece is bedecked with jewels while also boasting sapphire crystals and gold print.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    Ronaldo’s choice of image has provoked a storm amongst fansCredit: Getty
    The luxury watch also shows Ronaldo’s ‘Siu’ celebration on the backCredit: Jacob & Co.
    On the back, an image can be seen of Ronaldo doing his famous “Siu” goal celebration.
    There are no less than four versions of the watch, with the cheapest costing £23,931 and the most expensive selling for £123,927.
    But the watch’s face depicts an image sure to infuriate United further.
    When Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford with Real Madrid during the Champions League in February 2013, he scored an iconic header which saw him leap over 9.6 feet in the air.
    The stunning goal saw Real secure a 1-1 draw, with the Spaniards going on to win the next leg 2-1.
    And this is the picture Ronaldo chose to grace the front of his watch, revealing it around the same time United confirmed the veteran had been axed for good.
    Supporters quickly took to Twitter following the release of the watch, with many convinced the timing with United’s statement was not a coincidence.
    One said: “He really hates Man Utd.”
    Another gasped: “Wow for someone who calls themselves a club legend at United.”
    Read More on The Sun
    One noted: “In light of his contract at United being terminated, how classy of him.”
    Another added: “That’s really poor from him.” More

  • in

    Cristiano Ronaldo dropped hint at next club in Piers Morgan interview as star seeks transfer after Man Utd axing

    CRISTIANO RONALDO appeared to drop a hint about his next club during his Piers Morgan interview.The 37-year-old’s Manchester United contract was ripped up on Tuesday as the club confirmed his deal had been terminated by “mutual consent”.
    Cristiano Ronaldo is searching for a club after having his Man Utd contract ripped upCredit: Getty
    He is now a free agent heading into the January transfer window, but it is unclear where he will end up.
    However, Ronaldo appeared to rule out a return to Sporting Lisbon or transfer to Napoli during his sit-down with Morgan last week.
    He initially claimed he had turned down £3MILLION PER WEEK to join a team in Saudi Arabia.
    And, speaking about his future, he then said: “You go [to] the clubs. But Jorge Mendes for example, has more than 100 players and they go Chelsea, they go Arsenal, they always mention Cristiano Ronaldo, they offer Cristiano. 
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    “Piers, let’s be honest, who is the most expensive player, salary player, that Premier League had in history? It’s me, even with 37 years old. Why they’re gonna…even… they even offer me to Sporting or Napoli?
    “I will be honest with you, I didn’t have many, many clubs. But I have many, many offers of other clubs. I didn’t change because I didn’t plan to do it. 

    “But what the press keeps saying, the garbage, is that nobody wants me, which is completely wrong. 
    “And I was happy here [at Man Utd] to be honest. I was motivated to do a great season here. But they continue to repeat that nobody wants Cristiano.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON THE WORLD CUP
    “How they don’t want a player who scored 32 goals last year, [including] with national team?”
    Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim has kept the door open about a possible move for Ronaldo.
    Speaking about the Portuguese legend’s interview with Morgan, Amorim, via Ojogo, said: “I’ve been asked this question a thousand times. Ronaldo is a Manchester United player.
    “Everyone at Sporting likes him, there’s not much to say. He himself says he wants to do things in peace to follow his future.” More

  • in

    Cristiano Ronaldo releases statement after Man Utd rip up his contract with Portugal star now a free agent

    CRISTIANO RONALDO issued a statement confirming his immediate Manchester United exit.United terminated Ronaldo’s £500,000-a-week contract via “mutual agreement” after the star forward’s bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.
    Cristiano Ronaldo issued a statement confirming his Manchester Untied exitCredit: Reuters
    Cristiano Ronaldo will leave the club with immediate effect after mutual agreementCredit: Reuters
    Cristiano Ronaldo gave an interview to Piers Morgan slamming Manchester UnitedCredit: TalkTV
    The Portugal captain issued a touching message to the Red Devils fans stating he will always “love” the club and wished the team the very best.
    Ronaldo released the following statement: “Following talks with Manchester United, we’ve mutually agreed to end our contract.
    “I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change.
    “It feels like the right time to seek a new challenge. I wish Man Utd all the best”.
    Read More on Ronaldo
    Ronaldo blasted the club during his recent sit-down with Morgan as he claimed he feels “betrayed” by United.
    The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also fired shots at manager Erik ten Hag, the Glazers as well as former team-mates Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney.

    United released a blunt statement confirming the club icon’s exit from Old Trafford.
    It reads: “Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.
    Most read in Football
    IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP AND WIN A SHARE OF £50k
    “The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family well for the future.
    “Everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team’s progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch.”
    The news comes less than 48 hours before Ronaldo kicks off his fifth World Cup campaign with Portugal. More