He’ll always be a club legend – Wayne Rooney on Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy despite controversial exit

Former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney reckons Ronaldo’s controversial exit from the club doesn’t tarnish his image at the club. Ronaldo won Premier League and Champions League titles with the Red Devils during his first stint before making a move to Real Madrid.

However, Ronaldo’s second tenure at the Old Trafford-based club ended in a lot of controversies after his explosive interview with renowned broadcaster Piers Morgan. Ronaldo criticized the team’s manager Erik Ten Hag, the owners, and even his former teammate, Wayne Rooney.

Subsequently, Ronaldo’s contract was terminated and he went on to join the Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.

In an interview with CNN, Wayne Rooney said, “No, I think what he’s done for Manchester United is great. And he’s won Premier League titles, won the Champions League, and scored many goals. So I think certainly for the fans and certainly for the players, his former team-mates who played with him from my time especially, we’ll never forget what he did for Manchester United.

“Because in my eyes, he’ll always be a club legend and it’s a shame the way it ended of course this time round. But I don’t think that takes anything away from his legacy at the club.”

Over his two stints at Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo made a total of 346 appearances, in which he scored 145 goals and also provided 64 assists. Ronaldo scored 118 goals in his first tenure and then scored 27 goals in the second stint.

In fact, Ronaldo also won his first Ballon d’Or in 2008 when he was with Manchester United.

Meanwhile, Manchester United will face Newcastle United on Sunday at St. James’ Park. On the other hand, Ronaldo will be in action for Al-Nassr when they will face Al-Adalah on Tuesday night.