Cristiano Ronaldo leaves door open for Manchester United return

Detroit: Cristiano Ronaldo has refused to rule out a return to Manchester United, admitting he retains “passion” and “love” for the club.

The Real Madrid forward, in America for Saturday night’s friendly against his former team, left Old Trafford in a world-record £80 million (Dh494 million) transfer in 2009.

But after admitting to being overcome by emotion when he returned to United for a Champions League tie with Real in March 2013, Ronaldo revealed that he could not rule out another stint at Old Trafford.

“It was one of my favourite clubs, Manchester,” Ronaldo said. “Everyone knows that every time when I speak about Real Madrid I should speak about Manchester United, I loved it there.

“I was 18 years old [when I signed], I win everything there, the people treat me [well] there so I appreciate that and the future, nobody knows.

“I remember when we played there against Manchester in the Champions League — they kill me, my heart was so happy.

“I had fantastic moments and I appreciate this club. For me, it’s one of the best clubs in the world and I have passion for this club.

“Some players I am still in contact with because when I was there, I created a good relationship with everybody, not just the players, but all the staff. It was like my second family there, so I’ll not forget that the people treat me good.

“I love Manchester, and to be back, I never know, you never know. Football you never know. Of course, I’m happy at Real Madrid, it’s my home, it’s my club, but Manchester treated me unbelievable, so we never know.”

United attempted to re-sign Ronaldo 12 months ago at the start of the David Moyes regime, but the Portugal captain chose instead to sign a new contract at the Bernabeu.

United suffered their worst-ever Premier League season under Moyes, who was sacked and replaced by Louis van Gaal as manager. And with United impressing in their tour games under Van Gaal, Ronaldo believes his former club have secured the best possible manager in the Dutchman.

“It will be a better season for sure,” Ronaldo said. “My feeling is, he is a fantastic coach, he showed them all the time for Holland, the team play unbelievable, good football and I hope that Manchester come back like the people know. A strong United, playing nice football, with a lot of goals.

“I think Van Gaal is going to do a fantastic job, he’s experienced manager and I think he’s going to do well for Manchester.”