Cristiano Ronaldo: USD50-Mn Bullet Manchester City Dodged

With the benefit of hindsight, it’s easy to forget just how close Cristiano Ronaldo was to wearing the blue shirt of Manchester City.

In the summer of 2021, having missed out on his number one target Harry Kane manager Pep Guardiola was in dire need of an option upfront.

City scoured the market for an alternative solution and found limited options available.

Forwards of the level required by the Catalan and his team were either too expensive or difficult to land.

Cristiano Ronaldo wanted out from Juventus and, despite his well-established links to bitter rivals United, was willing to make the switch.

On social media Manchester United fans went into meltdown over the prospect of their former idol joining the team on the other side of the city.

He was being disowned by diehard supporters and there was a fierce debate over the impact it would have on his ‘legend’ status.

However, just as it appeared a deal was nearing, the situation flipped. Ronaldo was suddenly a certainty to join United instead.