Bruno Fernandes has addressed speculation Cristiano Ronaldo is seeking to leave Manchester United, saying he “doesn’t believe” such a move will materialise.
Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford from Juventus last year and finished as United’s highest scorer in the Premier League with 18 goals – only behind Tottenham’s Son Heung-min and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah in the division (both 23).
However, it was a disappointing season for United as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer lost his job and Ralf Rangnick failed to steady the ship, with the club missing out on a top-four finish and Champions League football.
Recent speculation has suggested Ronaldo is unhappy with United’s direction and is seeking a move.
And Chelsea has reportedly shown an interest.
Fernandes does not believe a departure will follow, however, and expects to see his compatriot in United training when the pair return from holiday next week.
He told reporters on Thursday:
“From what I’ve talked to him – we’re both on vacation still, and no one bothers friends on holiday.
“I hope in four days to find him to train there. I’m not expecting more than that.
“As far as I know, there’s nothing more to it than that, but everyone takes care of their future.
“I do not believe that the club is willing to lose an asset like Cristiano.”
Fernandes was then asked about the possibility of Ronaldo returning to Sporting CP, where his career began, and acknowledged he was hopeful such a move would happy in the future.
“It would be a great moment for Sporting, almost everyone expects this; I’d like that to happen,” Fernandes, also a former Sporting man, added.
“He has the ambition to continue playing for many years. We will see what he will decide.
“I hope when the contract with United is over.
“But the ambition and dream of the fans would be to see Ronaldo playing with the Sporting jersey.”
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