According to The Times, Cristiano Ronaldo has officially asked to leave Manchester United this summer so that he may play in the Champions League again next year.
The Portuguese captain joined United a year ago for a second term at Old Trafford, scoring 18 goals in 30 league games. However, the team ended sixth in the Premier League and missed out on the premier European club tournament for the upcoming season.
Ronaldo is under contract with the Red Devils through June 2023 with a one-year extension option. But now he has requested to be moved if a good offer comes by. Jorge Mendes has been on the lookout for a club and will be having talks with several clubs.
The striker has been informed by United that he will not be available for transfer this summer and that they expect him to sign a contract extension.
Cristiano Ronaldo told Man United he wants to leave this summer as he wants to see more ambition. Man Utd are still hopeful of keeping CR7, but aware of decision. 🚨🇵🇹 #Ronaldo
Cristiano has no agreement with any other club. Mendes explored options for weeks and will continue. pic.twitter.com/VRji13zrz0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 2, 2022
Several teams, including Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Napoli, are interested in signing Ronaldo.
The former Real Madrid great feels he needs the motivation of competing in the Champions League in the final phase of his career, despite his expressed respect and affection for United and their supporters. According to reports, Ronaldo believes that participating in the Champions League and winning significant trophies are crucial.
Erik ten Hag has been named by United to succeed interim coach Ralf Rangnick. When ten Hag was introduced last month, he stated that Ronaldo was a part of his plans for the upcoming season.
However, the Portuguese striker is not happy with the club’s transfer window strategy. Due to zero signings in June, the legendary attacker feels that the club is not showing enough ambition heading into the new season.
Also Read: The reason behind Bayern Munich rejecting a move for Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo scored 24 goals for United in a season where all the other players failed to perform consistently. The player is currently on holiday with his family as he awaits his agent’s response.
