Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester City Transfer Regret: United Legend Speaks Out

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester City move might have been a wiser choice, says a Manchester United legend, reflecting on the star’s tumultuous second spell at Old Trafford that saw his reputation take a hit.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2021 Transfer Dilemma

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United in August 2021 was met with immense excitement among fans and pundits, sparking memories of his glorious first spell with the Red Devils. However, not everyone in the football world was convinced this was the right move. A prominent United legend has now openly stated that Ronaldo would have been better off choosing Manchester City instead. This bold claim comes after observing how the Portuguese icon’s second stint at Old Trafford ended on a sour note, damaging the legacy he had built over the years.

Why Manchester City Could Have Been the Better Fit

Many experts believe that Cristiano Ronaldo’s playing style would have been a natural fit for Manchester City’s tactical system under Pep Guardiola. City, known for their fluid attacking approach and creative midfield, could have provided Ronaldo with the service and environment to continue thriving at the highest level. The United legend emphasized that, at City, Ronaldo would likely have enjoyed more on-pitch success, possibly adding further silverware to his illustrious career.

The Fallout at Manchester United

Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United was initially filled with promise. He scored important goals and attracted global attention, but the reunion quickly soured. The relationship between Ronaldo and manager Erik ten Hag deteriorated, with reports of disagreements behind the scenes. This culminated in Ronaldo’s premature departure from the club in November 2022, a far cry from the triumphant homecoming fans had envisioned. The legend argues that this turbulent period has unfortunately overshadowed many of Ronaldo’s achievements and raised questions about his legacy at Old Trafford.

Legacy and Reputation: The Impact of the Second Spell

There is little doubt that Cristiano Ronaldo’s time at Manchester United from 2003 to 2009 cemented his status as a club icon. However, his second spell has proved divisive. While he managed to deliver memorable moments, the overall narrative has been marked by controversy and a lack of harmony. According to the United legend, these issues may have been avoided had Ronaldo opted to join Manchester City, where he could have maintained his elite status and possibly ended his career on a higher note.

Ronaldo and the City Rivalry

The prospect of seeing Cristiano Ronaldo in a Manchester City shirt would have been unthinkable for many United supporters, but football is a results-driven business. The United icon’s remarks spark an intriguing debate about loyalty, ambition, and the importance of making strategic career decisions, even if they mean crossing traditional divides.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester City Transfer: A Missed Opportunity?

Looking back, the suggestion that Cristiano Ronaldo should have joined Manchester City instead of Manchester United is not without merit. City’s infrastructure, tactical consistency, and winning culture might have helped prolong Ronaldo’s impact at the top level. For the player himself, it would have been an opportunity to work with Pep Guardiola and chase further major honours in the Premier League and Europe.

Ronaldo’s Post-United Journey

After leaving Manchester United, Ronaldo continued his career in the Saudi Pro League, where he remains one of the game’s biggest attractions. Despite his enduring talent and commercial appeal, some still view his final months in Manchester as a missed opportunity to further embellish his legacy in Europe’s elite competitions.

Opinion: Did Ronaldo Damage His Legacy at Old Trafford?

In my view, while Cristiano Ronaldo will always be a Manchester United legend, his second stint did not live up to the expectations set by his earlier years. The circumstances of his departure and the internal conflicts with management cast a shadow over his legacy at the club. Had he chosen Manchester City, he may have enjoyed a different ending to his European career, possibly adding more trophies and further enhancing his reputation. For more news and updates on global football, visit for more news.