Manchester United had a plan to convince Cristiano Ronaldo to stay, but it appears to have failed as the Portugal star remains keen to leave Old Trafford this summer.
The club had set in motion 'operation Ferguson' to pre-empt the 37-year-old's official request to leave. However, with the player back in Manchester, little has changed.
According to reports in England, Sir Alex Ferguson was United's trump card in negotiations, but it didn't have the effect they were hoping for. The player does not wish to see out the second and final year of his contract.
Carrington showdown
Ronaldo, accompanied by his agent Jorge Mendes, was present at United's training complex in Carrington on Tuesday to hold discussions with the club about his future.
The open secret is that the former Real Madrid forward wants out as he's desperate to play in the Champions League and the English club cannot offer him that.
New head coach Erik Ten Hag is aware of Ronaldo's intentions, but remains optimistic about being able to count on the veteran this season. It now seems all but impossible that anyone will change the Portugal international's mind.
Jorge Mendes' presence
The fact that Ronaldo attended the meeting at Carrington with super agent Jorge Mendes present has been seen as a declaration of intent. On the other side of the table were Manchester United CEO Richard Arnold and Ferguson himself.
Operation Ferguson was a failure, however, with Ronaldo's former mentor unable to help the club convince him. The time he spent with his family after being excused from the club's tour of the USA was spent considering his future and his decision is a firm one.
A difficult market
The problem for all concerned, however, is that there is no easy route to an exit for Ronaldo. The necessity of playing in the Champions League limits his options. Chelsea, Bayern and Atletico Madrid have been rumoured as potential destinations, as few others could match his salary.
Atleti not off the table
As MARCA has previously reported, no one can say that Ronaldo will sign for Los Colchoneros, but neither can anyone say he definitely won't. Diego Simeone wants him and, if other circumstances fall into place, it cannot be ruled out.
A loan solution
One possible exit plan which is beginning to be talked about is the possibility that United could offer to extend Ronaldo's contract by a year to 2024, then loan him out this season. That would make an exit this summer easier and give both parties a chance to review their relationship next summer.
Gamnage
402
You must understand a selfish arrogant player like this ruins other career for his success. Kick his ass out
Ceobeoy
217
Simple solution, refuse to allow him to leave, making him abide by the contract he signed, then fine him 80% of his monthly salary each month he doesn’t turn up to train or play!
rapeilosuy
174
I hope no big club comes for him 💯 we were right when we said CR7 was the problem in the dressing room. The players won't say anything now because he's still part of the club, though deep down they want him to leave even though publicly they sound like they want him.
Aque_MrNobody
112
just terminate his contract then Let's see who wants him
cuzdeiklru
64
If he is leaving on loan,the club he is leaving to should pay his salaries and bonus in full. Left for me,I suggest we reject his demands,fine him upon his salary pay cut and bench him oftenly. Or sell him outrighly for £60m.
laeaclopt
52
Just let him leave the club as he is no longer the same old good player as before. Man utd shd look for younger player to kick start the new season.