Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford, where he spent 6 seasons between 2003 and 2009, was finalised on Tuesday before the close of the transfer window. The 36-year-old has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal with the Red Devils, with the option of a third. He has joined from Juventus in a €15 million (£12.9 m) move, plus a further €8 million (£6.9 m) in potential add-ons. News of the move emerged on Friday and Ronaldo then completed a medical in Lisbon over the weekend.
“Manchester United is a club that has always had a special place in my heart, and I have been overwhelmed by all the messages I have received since the announcement on Friday,” Ronaldo said. “I cannot wait to play at Old Trafford in front of a full stadium and see all the fans again. I'm looking forward to joining up with the team after the international games, and I hope we have a very successful season ahead.”
Ronaldo scored 101 goals in 134 games for Juve, where he won 2 Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia during his 3 seasons there. The Portugal captain began his career at Sporting Lisbon, but it was at United where he was forged into the global superstar we see today. He arrived in Manchester as a teenager in 2003, and proceeded to notch 118 goals in 269 appearances, helping the team win 3 Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, and 2 League Cups. After incredibly successful spells with Real Madrid – where he racked up 450 goals in 438 games – and Juve, he is now considered one of the best players in the history of the game.
The forward’s arrival follows the signings of Borussia Dortmund and England star Jadon Sancho and Real Madrid and France defender Raphael Varane this summer for £73 million and £40 million, respectively. Ronaldo and Sancho enhance United’s wealth of attacking options, which already included Marcus Rashford, Edinson Cavani, Mason Greenwood, and Anthony Martial.
Ronaldo will almost certainly make his 2nd debut for the Red Devils in their clash with Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Saturday 11 September. Adult tickets start at £42. The initial release of tickets for the game have been sold, but there will be additional releases in the run up to the match. An official (paid) membership is required to purchase Manchester United tickets.
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