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Cristiano Ronaldo to Atletico? The 10 keys to understanding his future

marca.com, 25 July 2022, 08:59
Asked to depart Manchester United this summer

While Atletico Madrid insist that a move for Cristiano Ronaldo is unfeasible, people close to the Manchester United star are not ruling out anything.

The Portugal international has reportedly asked to depart the Red Devils in his bid to participate in the Champions League next season.

Let's take a look at the 10 keys to understanding Ronaldo's future.

Financially unviable with potentially high revenues

Atletico can't afford to sign Ronaldo for the time being. Los Rojiblancos have no space in their salary cap and they can't meet Manchester United's demands.

However, they are aware that their revenue would skyrocket due to the commercial impact a potential Ronaldo arrival would make.

A couple of strikers or two important players must leave

To make room for Ronaldo, at least two players would have to leave the club. One would be Alvaro Morata and the other could be a midfielder such as Saul Niguez or Thomas Lemar.

CR7 would have to lower his salary, and is willing to

Atletico can't afford to cover his salary but the Portuguese star would be willing to lower his wages in order to play in the Champions League next season.

Want to play in the major European competition

Ronaldo's desire is to play Champions League and that's why he has approached clubs such as Chelsea and Bayern Munich.

He wants to be in a team who will compete for the trophy and believes that Atletico are among the candidates.

Out of options beyond Atletico

Los Rojiablancos were one of Ronaldo's last options. However, for the time being there is not much interest for the Manchester United forward and his agent Jorge Mendes offered him to Atletico.

Pushed to stay in Manchester

Some people close to the Portuguese star have advised him against departing Manchester United. They believe that he can help the team return to their glory days.

Considered a Real Madrid legend

A move to Atletico could be a blow for Real Madrid fans, who will see the club's all-time leading scorer join their local rivals. Meanwhile, Ronaldo would be delighted to return to the Spanish capital.

Atletico fans' reception

Ronaldo was public enemy number one for the Atletico fans and even when he was at Juventus, he had altercations with supporters at the Metropolitano.

Simeone in favour of the move

Atletico coach Diego Simeone has not been asked for his opinion but he would be in favour of a signing that could guarantee the team around 30 goals next season.

Conclusion: His arrival can't be ruled out

With all that has been said, nobody can say for sure whether Cristiano will sign for Atletico or not. There are several doubts, but a move to Los Rojiblancos can't be ruled out.

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