Cristiano Ronaldo has completed his move from Juventus to Manchester United.
Ronaldo completed a medical on Monday after United agreed a fee of €15 million, plus €8 million in add-ons, to secure the 36-year-old’s return.
Ronaldo told the Manchester United website: “Manchester United is a club that has always had a special place in my heart, and I have been overwhelmed by all the messages I have received since the announcement on Friday.
“I cannot wait to play at Old Trafford in front of a full stadium and see all the fans again. I'm looking forward to joining up with the team after the international games, and I hope we have a very successful season ahead.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer added: “You run out of words to describe Cristiano. He is not only a marvellous player, but also a great human being.
“To have the desire and the ability to play at the top level for such a long period requires a very special person. I have no doubt that he will continue to impress us all and his experience will be so vital for the younger players in the squad.
“Ronaldo’s return demonstrates the unique appeal of this club and I am absolutely delighted he is coming home to where it all started.”
Ronaldo scored 118 goals in 292 appearances during his first spell with United between 2003 and 2009.
Manchester City had last week been in talks with Ronaldo only for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to confirm United’s interest by remarking: “We’re here.”
Solskjaer said he did not want to “speculate” on Ronaldo’s future after the Portugal international told Juventus of his wish to leave. But the United manager did not hide his admiration for Ronaldo, in what appeared at the time to be an open play for his signature.
Solskjaer said: “He is a legend of this club, the greatest player of all time if you ask me. I was fortunate enough to play with him. I coached him when I got my job. He almost retired me because that Wolverhampton game when I got injured he kept switching sides.
“He is such a tremendous human being as well. Let's see what happens with Cristiano. Everyone who has played with him has a soft spot for him.
“We've always had a good communication. Bruno (Fernandes) has been talking to him. He knows what we feel about him. If he was ever going to move away from Juventus, he knows we’re here.”
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Ronaldo wanted to leave Juventus and the idea of bringing United back to a status as Premier League champions appealed to the veteran forward.
There is also the matter of being adored by United fans.
Would this lead to any exits from United?
It is understood Edinson Cavani is not expected to leave.
Sales could now be pursued but Solskjaer declared himself very happy at Jesse Lingard, who has seemed the likeliest departure due to West Ham United's interest.
Why is Ronaldo leaving Juventus?
Ronaldo has won everything at domestic level for Juventus. Champions of Italy in his first two seasons, he completed the sweep last year by lifting the Coppa Italia, the Super Cup and winning the Capocannoniere, writes James Horncastle.
As Juventus move to a more sustainable model and adapt to the impact of the pandemic, the cost of having Ronaldo has become all the more glaring between net salary and amortization.
The 36-year-old had only one year left on his contract and talks over an extension did not take place.
Where can I find out more?
The Athletic has taken a look at the moves which could still happen on deadline day, in the Premier League, Europe and beyond.
For the key information, Go Deeper below.
(Photo: Getty Images)
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