Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Club Ownership While Reflecting on Manchester United’s Struggles

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested he may pursue football club ownership in the future, offering a bold vision for how he would address Manchester United’s ongoing challenges. Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, where he was named Best Middle East Player of 2024, the Portuguese forward shared insights about his career aspirations and reflected on his former club’s recent difficulties.

Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, dismissed the notion that Manchester United’s issues are rooted in their new manager, Ruben Amorim. Amorim, appointed after Erik ten Hag’s departure, has endured a rocky start, losing five of his first ten games, including four of the past five in the Premier League. Despite this, Ronaldo defended his countryman.

“The Premier League is the most difficult league in the world,” Ronaldo said. “All teams are good, all teams fight, and all games are tough. The problem at Manchester United is not the coach—it’s much deeper than that. If I were the owner, I would make the necessary adjustments to fix the situation.”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner compared the club’s situation to an aquarium, explaining that replacing managers without addressing underlying issues only perpetuates problems. He also praised Amorim’s work with Sporting CP, where the coach previously found success, expressing hope for a turnaround at United.

“I knew it would be tough for him,” Ronaldo added. “But the storm will pass, and the sun will rise. Fingers crossed, things will improve because Manchester United is a club I still love.”

Future Club Ownership Aspirations

During the awards ceremony, Ronaldo hinted at his post-retirement plans, confirming he has no desire to become a coach or club president but is intrigued by the prospect of ownership.

“Maybe I’ll be an owner of a club,” Ronaldo said. “It depends on the right opportunities and the moment. Mark my words: I will be the owner of a big club one day.”

When pressed on potential targets, Ronaldo offered a cryptic response: “Not yet. A few, maybe.”

With a net worth estimated at £636 million, Ronaldo could consider investing in a club in Portugal, such as his boyhood side Nacional or Sporting CP, although valuations may make such moves challenging. Alternatively, opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s Pro League or Major League Soccer (MLS) could align with his ambitions, as both leagues might welcome investment from a global football icon.

Focus on Playing Career

Despite his long-term plans, Ronaldo remains committed to his playing career. At 39, he has set his sights on reaching 1,000 professional goals—he currently stands at 916—and has not ruled out playing in the 2026 World Cup.

“I just want to enjoy playing football,” Ronaldo said. “As long as I feel motivated, I will keep going. The day I lose that motivation, I’ll retire.”

Ronaldo’s remarks come amid speculation about changes at Manchester United, where Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group has taken control of football operations. Despite these developments, Ronaldo believes fundamental issues at the club remain unresolved.

For now, Ronaldo is firmly focused on his on-field achievements while keeping one eye on a potential future as a club owner—a move that could redefine his legacy in football.

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Featured Image Credit: X / Cristiano