Is Manchetser acquisition of Christiano Ronaldo more of Hype than Logic?

Ronaldo's statements from 2009 through to 2017 when speaking about the Red Devils, Manchester United was more of a predictor than speculation about his return to the prestigious club. He always asserted that he had the club close to his heart and would not mind going back. His recent move back pleasantly amazed legions of fans and startled the footballing world. The more one evaluates the scenario, the clearer one can allude that Manchester United's strategic move was in consideration of the fan base than football logic. The strategic maneuver is likened to a fairy tale awaiting the Cinderella man in the 'theater of dreams.

Source: Daily Express

Manchester decided to mend their relationships with fans, especially after the European Super League scenario. Another considerable factor to bring back the player was the financial incentives he brought about, evidenced by Manchester's stock market value significantly rising by 212 million euros immediately upon the star's signing. And, renewed sponsorship deals and shirt sales are expected to continuously boost the club's financial coffers. The question then is if the signing makes sense in terms of football since a football club's fundamental goal is to be on top and win trophies.

Source: Football365

It is thus important to understand how the football star has fared in the previous years. Ronaldo recorded six years of eventful achievement after leaving Manchester United for Real Madrid in 2009. In this time, in 291 appearances, he scored 118 goals. He later joined Juventus in 2018 and in 44 games, tallying 36 goals and won two Serie A titles. However, his woes with the club that led to their mutual break-up could be seen. The 'Old Lady of Turin' expected the star to make them champions after 25 years waiting, but they failed to go past the Champions League quarter-finals. To add salt to the wound, they lost the title to Inter Milan, their fierce rivals.

Source: CNBC.com

At the moment, the vital question is whether CR7 will continue his goal-scoring streak wherever he goes. The football star has drastically evolved from his left-flank role as a counter-attacking missile and dribbler to more of a central role. Thus, the Red Devils fan base better expect a penalty box encroacher than the speedy forward they were used to. The player also comes into well-equipped attacking participants such as Fernandes, Sancho, Rashford, Cavani, Greenwood, Pogba, and Martial. The number of attacking forwards questions whether the club is considering the weak point of the defensive midfield.

Creator: ANTHONY DEVLIN | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

Another critical conundrum is towards the future of the club. The club has spent glaring finances towards acquiring Ronaldo and may lose the resources to sign a new rising star to build upon their future legacy. This uncertainty is accentuated by their prodigy Kylian Mbappé leaving the club, either to be a free agent next year or move to Real Madrid. As such after careful assessment, one can surmise that Ronaldo signing could be more affiliated with pleasing the fan base and the financial incentives he brings.