Former Manchester United forward Dimitar Berbatov has delivered a positive verdict on Cristiano Ronaldo’s first season with the club following his return and thinks that the Portuguese striker made the right decision.
The Portuguese broke the headlines last August when he decided to return back to Manchester United after 12 years. Ronaldo completed his transfer from Italian heavyweights Juventus, and unsurprisingly, the announcement broke the internet. Nostalgia and rumours of unfinished business did the rounds on social media as two of the most popular entities in football came together once again.
However, his first season back in England since leaving for Real Madrid in 2009 has certainly been divisive and controversial. While the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has found the back of the net aplenty – scoring 24 goals across all competitions and finishing as the highest scorer for the Red Devils – his presence upfront has hindered United’s collective buildup and performance in the final third.
They finished sixth in the Premier League with their lowest points total in the modern era. United ended the season trophyless and were forced to settle for a Europa League place for next term.
Ronaldo’s attitude off the pitch and his insistence on not accepting a bench role has also messed with the plans of both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who got sacked mid-season and his replacement Ralf Rangnick. The 37-year-old flew to Portugal when United opted to field a starting XI without him in the Manchester derby.
However, Dimitar Berbatov, who had spent a season with Cristiano at United during his first spell, has delivered his verdict and thinks that the superstar has surpassed expectations at Old Trafford.
“More than anyone was expecting, probably,”
the former United striker told Betfair when asked if Ronaldo had made a positive impact this season.
“I have been asked a lot of times about him, and every time I have said the same thing. He is bringing goals, bringing experience, helping the young talent and knowing just how to play the game. He is also smart about the way he plays and what he brings to the table. Come on, the guy is unbelievable.”
