Cristiano Ronaldo completes move to Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Manchester United after more than a decade away having completed his move from Italian club Juventus.
United have paid 15m euros (£12.85m) – and a possible 8m euros (£6.85m) in add-ons – for the 36-year-old.
Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract with the Old Trafford club, with the option to extend for a further year.
“Manchester United is a club that has always had a special place in my heart,” said the Portuguese superstar.
“I have been overwhelmed by all the messages I have received since the [initial] announcement on Friday.”
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo scored 118 goals in 292 appearances in his first spell at United before leaving for Real Madrid in 2009, and was the leading scorer last season in Serie A with 29.
He added: “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.”
United manager 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.”
Ronaldo Completes Medical Ahead Of Manchester United Return
Ronaldo had been linked with Manchester City but opted to return to United, where he spent six years and won three Premier League titles, one Champions League, two League Cups and one FA Cup – as well as the Fifa Club World Cup and Community Shield – under Sir Alex Ferguson.
He is believed to have spoken to Ferguson prior to his return to United.
Ronaldo could be available to Solskjaer for United’s home game against Newcastle United on 11 September, which is the club’s first match following the international break.
Ronaldo wore the number seven shirt in his first stint at United currently held by Edinson Cavani and, even if the Uruguay striker was willing to hand over the shirt number, Premier League rules prevent a mid-season swap except in the most extreme circumstances.
BBC/Emmanuel Ukoh
