Former Premier League enforcer Momo Sissoko believes Cristiano Ronaldo could stay in England after the Qatar World Cup, telling Il Bianconero that the former Manchester United talisman may end up at Newcastle.
It was, perhaps, the sharpest Ronaldo has looked all season long. Then again, that’s like saying ‘Uncut Gems’ is Adam Sandler’s best film of the last few years. There’s really not much competition for such an accolade.
Regardless or whether or not a stray hair connected with that Bruno Fernandes’ cross, Ronaldo’s performance during Portugal’s 2-0 victory over Uruguay on Sunday was more like the great man we’ve come to know during two decades at the very top level.
He looked quicker. Fitter. His link-play and movement was much improved too.
And, following that acrimonious departure from Old Trafford last week – sacked on the back of that ill-advised Talk TV interview with Piers Morgan – Ronaldo is clearly determined to prove that, even as his 38th birthday approaches, that there is life left in this old dog.
Will Newcastle sign former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo after Qatar World Cup?
According to the Daily Mail, Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes is trying to find a new home for his veteran client. Ronaldo has been offered to an upwardly-mobile, deep-pocketed Newcastle outfit. And former Juventus and Liverpool midfielder Sissoko convinced that St James’ Park remains one of the most likely destinations for the five-time Ballon D’Or winner.
“In my opinion, he will stay in England,” Sissoko says. “And I see him at Newcastle. Only they have the money to be able to afford him in Europe. At least, among the teams interested in him.”
Sissoko’s stance, however, does not factor in Eddie Howe’s style of play. If Erik Ten Hag cannot find a regular place in his Man United XI for Ronaldo, then it’s hard to imagine Howe uprooting his high-pressing principles to accommodate a 37-year-old fading force.
What’s more, Newcastle’s transfer policy, even after that Middle Eastern takeover, continues to revolve around exciting, up-and-coming talent rather than established superstars.
Ronaldo earned £500,000-a-week at Old Trafford. He admitted recently to having turned down a £300 million offer from an unnamed Saudi Arabian club.
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