A 3-1 victory against West Ham yesterday in the EFL cup made it 11 games since Manchester United last recorded a defeat. The last time was a 3-2 loss to red-hot Arsenal.
There is no doubt that Manchester United’s blistering form has skyrocketed ever since the Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo made a trip away from England to ply his trade in the Middle East.
Ronaldo, the beautiful bride of Old Trafford returned to the club in 2021 after conquering the Spanish La Liga in Spain and the Serie A in Italy.
The 39-year-old’s anticipated return to England was music to many who supported the Red Devils. Ronaldo who made his first appearance for the red side of Manchester in 2003 was ready to renew his vows.
Life was good for Ronaldo, he recorded 24 goals and 13 assists in 38 appearances for the Red Devils. This love felt unrequited as Manchester United finished 6th in the Premier League table unable to secure a Champions League spot.
This brought about murmuring about whether Ronaldo was starving the team with his quest to smash records. For some it was YES, for others it was NO, while others were indifferent because they were rival fans who were enjoying United’s misery.
All hell let loose after Ronaldo granted Piers Morgan an interview that showcased what felt like the skeleton in the United’s cupboard.
Narrating his ordeal to Pier Morgan of The Sun/ TalkTV he said “Honestly, I don’t know. I don’t care. People should hear the truth. Yes, I feel betrayed. Some people don’t want me here not only this year but last year too.
“I don’t know what’s going on. Since Sir Alex Ferguson left I have seen no evolution in the club. The progress was zero.”
This statement and many more said in the interview with Piers Morgan made Manchester United terminate their contract with the Portuguese.
Fast-forward to life after Ronaldo’s departure, United have won 30 games and currently sits 3rd on the Premier League table. They could also have a run at winning the cup if the likes of Arsenal and City blink.
Players like Marcus RashFord, Anthony, Lisandro Martinez, Aaron Wan Bissaka, Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, and even the Brazillian Fred have all suddenly picked up form, playing excellent football under the tutelage of Ten Hag.
Ronaldo leaving the club seemed to be the biggest blessing United fans did not ask for, who knows they could have been battling for the 10th position in the league with Chelsea. Sometimes a little change hurts no one.
