The hypothesis is enough to raise eyebrows: could Cristiano Ronaldo return to Manchester United, not on the pitch, but in the offices? After winning everything in the red jersey, the Portuguese legend now sees his name associated with a much more institutional project. The idea, still vague, has emerged in recent days and is already fueling debate around the Mancunian club. A comeback of a completely different kind, but one that makes part of the Old Trafford public dream.
The crazy idea from outside
It was a former United player, Wes Brown, who opened the door to this bold hypothesis. According to him, Ronaldo would have everything to establish himself in an executive role within the club: charisma, experience and business sense. “He could definitely join the board, 100%, why not? “, confided the ex-defender, recalling the growing influence of the five-time Ballon d'Or at Al-Nassr, where he already holds a share of the capital and a right of oversight over recruitment.
At 40, the Portuguese is now the first active billionaire footballer, and his profile goes far beyond the simple boundaries of sport. For Brown, a strategic role in the club where he became a legend would be a logical continuation of his career.
What if Cristiano Ronaldo returned to United… in a suit?
A symbolic return, but unlikely in the short term
The idea is attractive, but remains purely theoretical. Ronaldo, still performing well in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, does not plan to leave the field in the short term. He is still aiming for the legendary mark of 1,000 career goals and is preparing for the 2026 World Cup with Portugal. On the other hand, his reconversion towards business and sports management seems already underway.
Especially since at Manchester United, the management of INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe is going through a period of transition. The arrival of a figure as emblematic as Ronaldo would be a thunderclap, but also a strong signal sent to the locker room and to the supporters.
Ronaldo has other priorities at the moment
The possibility of a return of Ronaldo in a managerial role is part of a broader reflection on the reconversion of the legends of the club. After years of instability, Manchester United are looking to reconnect with their identity, and seeing a former hero contribute to the Red Devils' rebirth would not be without symbolism.
It remains to be seen whether the main interested party would have the desire. For now, Ronaldo continues to pile up records in Saudi, but the day may come when he will swap shorts for a suit. At Old Trafford, obviously.
