Cristiano Ronaldo surprisingly reacts to 39th birthday message from Man Utd – one year on from acrimonious exit sparked by Erik ten Hag fallout.
- Returned to Old Trafford in 2021
- Contract ripped up less than 18 months later
- Evergreen star now shining in Saudi Arabia
Ronaldo Returned to Old Trafford in 2021
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Portuguese superstar made a stunning return to English football in the summer of 2021.
Less than 18 months later his contract was ripped up, with an explosive interview leading to a falling out with manager Erik ten Hag that saw a professional relationship there damaged beyond repair.
Ronaldo Contract ripped up less than 18 months later
Ronaldo headed to the Middle East after severing ties with the Red Devils and has continued to star for Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr. He hit a world-leading 54 goals for club and country in 2023, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner showing no sign of slowing down.
DID YOU KNOW?
He turned 39 on February 5, with birthday wishes flooding in from every corner of the planet. One of those messages was sent from Manchester. Ronaldo could have been forgiven for ignoring United, given how their partnership ended, but he has liked their post on social media.
Instagram
Evergreen star now shining in Saudi Arabia
WHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
Ronaldo is currently recovering from an unfortunate injury that prevented him from lining up against eternal rival Lionel Messi in a recent friendly date between Al-Nassr and Inter Miami. He will be hoping to come back into contention for the resumption of competitive action in Saudi Arabia – with Al-Nassr set to face Al Feiha in the AFC Champions League last-16 on February 14.
The veteran star could be back on the pitch on February 8 when Al-Nassr take on Saudi league leaders Al-Hilal in a friendly match. Al-Nassr are due to return to competitive action on February 14 against Al-Feiha in the AFC Champions League knockout stage