Cristiano Ronaldo Should Focus on Continuing Success, Not Manchester United Move

Although he’s hell-bent on an eventual return to Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo should focus his efforts on the hefty task of leading Real Madrid back to glory.

Barcelona have only gotten better this summer, making the task a great one. Still, that challenge hasn’t persuaded Ronaldo away from the idea of returning to the Premier League for another stint at Old Trafford.

The Guardian’s Daniel Taylor reported Ronaldo wants to make the move, albeit not until next summer at the earliest. United’s interest is mutual, too, setting up a potential marriage for the star striker to finish out the remainder of his career in the place where he got his start.

Many believed Madrid’s pursuit of Tottenham star Gareth Bale would force the club into satisfying those wishes this summer. Despite the club closing in on securing Bale—a deal that will go down “very soon,” per The Guardian’s David Hytner—it doesn’t look like they will be parting ways with their current star player.

However, the imminent signing could help prompt a move next summer. Ronaldo’s transition to a more center position in Carlo Ancelotti’s system makes room for Bale to come in and fill the void on the wing.

While it’s contrary to Ronaldo’s apparent wishes and all other intentions, Taylor also said the club was nearing an extension with the 28-year-old. He’ll still be an effective player well into his 30s, so let’s not confuse his desire to play at United with a ploy to get more money out of Madrid. Ronaldo can command as much cash as he wants, whenever he wants. He’s just that good.

What you should question, though, is his commitment to helping Madrid perpetrate another successful season in Europe. Not only should they have their sights set on toppling Barca, but with Bale they also have the opportunity to contend for a Champions League crown.

That’s where Ronaldo’s focus should rest, not on a future move back to Manchester United.

He’s looked at with high regard all around the football world. When someone in that position creates unnecessary distractions, it can do nothing but eat away at a club like a cancer.

Yes, Ronaldo should be allowed to play wherever he wants, but he should do it the right way—putting everything he has in himself toward a big season at the Bernabeu before he does it.