Al-Nassr and Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo has been tipped to make a shocking return to Old Trafford by his former Manchester United teammate Louis Saha.
Cristiano Ronaldo kicked off another professional season with a goal for Al-Nassr in their opening match against Al-Taawoun. At 39, Ronaldo was the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League last season with 35 goals and aims to replicate that success this year as Al-Nassr starts their domestic campaign.
Ronaldo will turn 40 in February 2025, leading to speculation that retirement may be approaching for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. Former player Louis Saha has suggested an unexpected career path for Ronaldo.
Saha, who played with Ronaldo during his first stint at Manchester United from 2004-2008, believes Ronaldo could return to Manchester United in a coaching or managerial role. Saha mentioned that Ronaldo’s previous frustration with his second stint at United, where he didn’t see the same level of passion and commitment from younger players, might influence his future approach to coaching.
Saha is confident that Ronaldo’s dedication and experience will make him a successful manager, drawing parallels with Roy Keane’s successful managerial career. He highlighted Ronaldo’s strong connection with Manchester United, evidenced by Ronaldo’s preference for a nostalgic return to Old Trafford over joining Manchester City.
Given Erik ten Hag’s recent contract extension with Manchester United, it seems improbable that Ronaldo would have any role with the club while Ten Hag is in charge, especially considering Ronaldo’s departure in 2022.
Although Ronaldo has not completely dismissed the idea of becoming a manager, he has indicated that he does not see himself pursuing that path at present. With his current contract with Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season, significant decisions regarding his future as both an Al-Nassr player and a professional footballer will be made in the coming months.
