Cristiano Ronaldo Is Returning To Sporting Lisbon?

Manchester United's legendary goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo has been reportedly linked with transferring back home to Sporting Lisbon. The club's sporting director Hugo Viana has addressed the rumor.

Sporting Lisbon sporting director Viana claimed that Ronaldo's return to his former club is hard to see as of the moment. He told Sky Sports, "I think not now - I don't think it is possible, but you never know. He can decide where he goes, but you never know the future. I don't want to talk about that, but he has another year on his contract so whatever he decides, let's see."

Viana also stated that the Red Devils were aiming for stabilization, "It is time for Man Utd to stabilize, to create a good spirit inside the club. I think it is not what's happening now, but there it always time to rebuild. With Cristiano, of course, there is a player who scores 25 goals per season."

The 37-year-old footballer made a dramatic comeback to Man Utd in August 2021 from Italian giants Juventus. Ronaldo scored 24 goals in 38 games for the Red Devils but was known to be frustrated by the team's inconsistent performance, placing them sixth in the Premier League table.

Despite the arrival of Man Utd's newly appointed manager, Erik ten Hag, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner is reportedly ready to stay in United if he remains part of the latter's new plans for the team.

Ronaldo started his career at Sporting however, the club's financial capability would make it challenging to get him back unless the Portuguese footballer is ready to take a massive salary cut. He played 25 league games before signing for United in 2003.

A source told The Sun, "Sporting know that Ronaldo loves winning trophies. That looks a long way away at United at the moment and time is running out for Ronaldo. So what better way to finish his career than move back home and play in Portugal." He added, "It's a strong league and a great lifestyle. Senior officials have made inquiries and let Ronaldo know they are interested if he wishes to leave United."