Portugal captain Crisitiano Ronaldo is set to join his new Manchester United teammates after the international break and could be ready to make his second United debut for the visit of Newcastle at Old Trafford on 11th September.
News of United agreeing a move for the five time Ballon D’or winner was made public on Friday after Juventus agreed to an offer but it was not confirmed officially until Tuesday morning when the Red Devils posted the formal announcement.
“Manchester United is delighted to confirm the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo on a two-year contract with the option to extend for a further year, subject to international clearance,” the club said in a statement.
Cristiano Ronaldo said: “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.
“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.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “You run out of words to describe Cristiano. He is not only a marvellous player, but also a great human being. To have the desire and the ability to play at the top level for such a long period requires a very special person.
“I have no doubt that he will continue to impress us all and his experience will be so vital for the younger players in the squad. Ronaldo’s return demonstrates the unique appeal of this club and I am absolutely delighted he is coming home to where it all started.”
Cristiano, a five-time Ballon D’or winner, has so far won over 30 major trophies during his career, including five UEFA Champions League titles, four FIFA Club World Cups, seven league titles in England, Spain and Italy, and the UEFA European Championship for his native Portugal.
Cristiano is the first player to win leagues in three different countries, he was also the highest goal-scorer in last season’s Serie A and won the golden boot at this year’s European Championship. In his first spell for Manchester United, he scored 118 goals in 292 games.
Some of the United players have also reacted to the move as follows.
“Everybody knows what he brings. He’s already a legend in this club and he’s coming back, so obviously it’s huge for us, for the club,” said midfielder Paul Pogba.
“He’s going to bring his experience, his quality and obviously when he comes the level goes up. We’re really pleased he’s coming… when he comes we keep this mentality of winning, and keep winning.”
Luke Shaw, the England leftback said: “I feel like it’s given the club a massive lift, not just inside but also outside. Obviously it’s a big positive. He’s been one of the best players in the world for a number of years now. Everyone is excited for him to come in and not just learn off him but be able to play with him too.”
Goalkeeper David De Gea observed that Ronaldo “can bring something special”.
“It’s like a dream for all the Manchester United fans, for us. To have him back it is going to be great, you can feel in the atmosphere,” said the Spanish shot stopper.
“Hopefully he can bring something special as well to make the team even better. It’s great to have him.”
Ronaldo donned jersey number seven in his first stint at United but that is currently held by Edinson Cavani and, even if the Uruguay striker was willing to hand over the shirt number, Premier League rules prohibit a mid-season swap unless under very exceptional circumstances, which this transfer does not fit in.
PHOTO/COURTESY
