Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United shocked the footballing world. Fans everywhere rejoiced at the news, and the transfer even saw many of his teammates in awe.
United’s current captain Harry Maguire shared this sentiment as he hailed Ronaldo as the GOAT.
“For me, the greatest player to play the game. It’s amazing to have him at the club. I’m sure he’s going to have a huge impact on & off the field. Obviously he’s going to improve our team as well with his goalscoring record.”
Harry Maguire
Many of United’s players came in during an era that, quite frankly, lacks the stars of the “old days” under Sir Alex Ferguson. Even Maguire, who features heavily for the English national team, played for Leicester City up until 2019. There he featured alongside the likes of Kelechi Inhenacho and Marc Albrighton.
Suddenly, he now finds himself as Ronaldo’s teammate.
Young forward Mason Greenwood has a similar shock in store for himself. At just 19 years old, he and his new teammate have a whopping 17-year age gap. Just like Ronaldo, the teenager also scores loads of goals and is hailed as one of England’s brightest stars.
The shocking return
Ronaldo’s arrival coincides with an uptick in form for Greenwood, who already has 3 goals in 3 Premier League matches this season. In addition to aiding the team with his goals, many believe Ronaldo can mentor Greenwood and boost his development even more.
Former Ireland and Tottenham striker Robbie Keane had some sound advice for the youngster upon Cristiano’s arrival.
“If I was Mason Greenwood, I�d be watching [Ronaldo], everything he does. His attitude, his professionalism, with players like Ronaldo around, [the other players’] levels going to go up higher and higher, he won�t take any nonsense from these young players.”
Robbie Keane
Initially, a number change looked on the tabs as Ronaldo’s famous number 7 already is worn by Edinson Cavani. However, the departure of Daniel James opened another number as Cavani most likely will take James’ 21. This allows for CR7 to continue as CR7 in Manchester.
Adding Ronaldo to an already formidable attack only bolsters United’s chances at a title. In addition to CR7, the club signed winger Jadon Sancho. They also added a former Madrid teammate of Ronaldo’s to the backline in Raphael Varane.
With the pieces set in place, this may be United’s year. Time will only tell whether CR7 brings actual success or just raw hype to the club. Based on his prior track record, the first seems more likely.
