Cristiano Ronaldo Poised for Manchester United Return as Manager, Says Former Teammate Louis Saha

Cristiano Ronaldo’s passion and dedication could lead him back to Manchester United, but this time, he was in a managerial role, according to his former teammate Louis Saha.

Saha, who played alongside Ronaldo under legendary United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, suggested that the 39-year-old football icon could make a return to Old Trafford, either as a coach or a manager, despite still being an active player with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.

Cristiano Ronaldo joined Saudi club Al Nassr in 2023 (Picture: Getty)

Ronaldo’s second stint at Manchester United ended less than ideal, with frustrations over the lack of passion and performance from younger players contributing to his departure. Saha believes that Ronaldo, having experienced these challenges, will adapt his approach to coaching.

“Cristiano Ronaldo has the passion and dedication to return to Manchester United one day,” Saha told TVSporten. “That could be as a coach or even a manager. His second spell didn’t end as everyone hoped, and you can see why that frustrated him.”

Saha noted that Ronaldo’s approach to communication might evolve in his potential managerial role, drawing parallels to Roy Keane’s successful transition into management.

Ronaldo first joined United from Sporting Lisbon in 2003 and enjoyed a highly successful six-year tenure before moving to Real Madrid, where he solidified his status as one of the world’s best players. After nine years and numerous trophies with Madrid, Ronaldo spent time at Juventus before returning to Manchester United. His second term ended dramatically due to a high-profile fallout with then-manager Erik ten Hag and public criticism of the club.

Despite the turbulent end to his playing career at United, Saha remains optimistic about Ronaldo’s future in management.