‎Cristiano Ronaldo Eyes Manchester United Return in Future Role as Former Teammates Back CR7's Plan to 'Make United Great Again'

‎Cristiano Ronaldo may reunite with Manchester United in a non-playing role after his retirement, according to his former teammate Danny Simpson. Speaking with GOAL in association with MightyTips, Simpson revealed that Ronaldo has ambitions to “make Manchester United great again” and could return to Old Trafford in a decision-making or executive capacity once his playing days end.

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‎Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Manchester United in a boardroom role, with ex-teammates backing his ambition to make the club great again.

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‎The 39-year-old forward remains active at the top level after signing a new two-year contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr. That deal will keep him playing beyond his 42nd birthday, extending a record-breaking career that has seen him win five Ballon d’Or titles and major honours across Europe. Despite nearing his forties, Ronaldo continues to score consistently in Saudi Arabia and has shown no signs of slowing down.

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‎Questions continue to surround what direction Ronaldo’s post-playing career might take. Some have speculated about a move into coaching, but others believe he may prefer a leadership or ownership role that allows him to influence club strategy without the day-to-day pressures of management. The Portuguese icon has reportedly shown interest in executive-level positions that could involve overseeing football operations or helping shape a club’s future direction.

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‎Ronaldo’s connection with Manchester United remains significant. The club was instrumental in his rise to global superstardom, delivering his first Champions League trophy and Ballon d’Or. His second stint at Old Trafford ended abruptly in 2022 following a terminated contract, yet many within football believe he would welcome the chance to contribute again in a different capacity.

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‎Simpson said, “If you look at his mentality, he obviously cares about the club. I think he’d like to come back again but in another way. He didn’t like the way he left, so he’d want to return to make United great again at some level, making decisions. He’s a businessman with a strong team around him, and United could use that mentality.”

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‎Several ex-Manchester United players have echoed that sentiment. Wes Brown suggested Ronaldo could transition into the boardroom rather than coaching, citing his leadership qualities and business acumen. Quinton Fortune also expressed belief in Ronaldo’s ability to succeed in any role, even as a potential part-owner of the club, given his deep ties and passion for Manchester United.

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‎Teddy Sheringham added that Ronaldo’s post-playing journey could mirror that of David Beckham, moving toward global ventures and ambassadorial work while remaining open to roles linked to the club.

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‎Off the pitch, Ronaldo has developed a vast business empire through his CR7 brand, which spans fashion, fragrance, fitness, and hospitality. His commercial ventures continue to grow worldwide, reflecting the same drive that defines his football career. The success of his brand may eventually see him focus on business full-time once he retires, though his affection for Manchester United could still draw him back in an ambassadorial or leadership role.

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‎Ronaldo has yet to reveal his exact plans for life after football, but his influence on and off the field continues to inspire speculation about a future return to Old Trafford — this time, not as a player, but as a figure shaping Manchester United’s future.