Cristiano Ronaldo shows where his loyalties lie after explosive Man Utd exit

Cristiano Ronaldo does not want Manchester City to win the Champions League this year - even if he believes the European champions have "a good chance" of retaining their crown.

The multi-time Ballon d'Or winner, 38, is a Manchester United icon after two spells at Old Trafford, the latter of which came in 2021. He left the Red Devils under a cloud last year and currently plays in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo has tasted Champions League glory no less than five times throughout his illustrious career and was asked who he fancied to win this year's competition. And while he talked up Pep Guardiola's side, his reluctance to see them repeat their Champions League success should raise a smile or two in the red half of Manchester.

"I think Manchester City has a great chance of winning the Champions League again this season. I hope not, but I think they have a chance. Favourites? Man City, Real Madrid, Bayern [Munich]."

He went on to commend United's arch-rivals following their historic treble last season, adding: "Manchester City did amazing. Congratulations on their season. Players, coach. Superb. Finally they win the Champions League, they probably deserved it two years ago. I enjoy seeing them play."

Prior to his second spell at Manchester United it had seemed briefly as though Ronaldo was heading to the Etihad. United hijacked the move, though, to bring the Portugal forward back to Old Trafford.

Unfortunately, his second coming was short-lived. Ronaldo claimed he felt "betrayed" by the club and slammed Ten Hag during an explosive interview with Piers Morgan in November 2022. He left the club days later.

Reacting to the news, Ronaldo issued a statement which read: "Following conversations with Manchester United we have mutually agreed to end our contract early.

"I love Manchester United and I love the fans, that will never ever change. However, it feels like the right time for me to seek a new challenge. I wish the team every success for the remainder of the season and for the future."

Ronaldo would become the first high-profile player to move to Saudi Arabia after his departure, joining Al-Nassr. A host of big names, including several from the Premier League, have since followed the veteran forward in moving to the Gulf State.