Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that despite a difficult 2021-22 season, he is “extremely pleased” with the club.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner turned down Manchester City’s desire to return to Old Trafford, where he had a successful season on a personal level.
In 38 games in all competitions, Ronaldo scored 24 goals and set up three more, including 18 goals in 30 Premier League matches.
Following the Red Devils’ troubles, Ronaldo’s future has undoubtedly been put into question, but Erik ten Hag recently stated that he was eager to continue working with the Portugal international.
“Ronaldo is a giant, because of what he’s already shown and I think he’s still very ambitious,” the former Ajax boss told Dutch outlet De Telegraaf.
“Of course I would like to keep him. He’s been very important to Manchester United this year and can produce great statistics.”
Now, Ronaldo has seemingly confirmed that he will not push for a move away from the club during an interview with the Red Devils, saying: “I was happy of course to be back at a club that really raised my career. So it was unbelievable.
“The feeling when I (came) back again, it was nice to feel the supporters. The happiness of them as great. I was – and still am – very happy to be here.
“I believe that Manchester will be where they belong. As I say before, sometimes it takes time but I still believe. The records are coming in a natural way. I don’t follow the records but the records follow me. So it’s good.
“It’s still my motivation to carry on. Just working hard. I still love the passion for the game. And of course, Manchester and my team-mates helped me all the way so I have to appreciate all the people who help Cristiano.”
“I know he [Ten Hag] did a fantastic job for Ajax and that he’s an experienced coach. But we need to give him time and things need to change – the way he wants.
‘I hope we have success of course. Because if you have success, all of Manchester are going to have success as well. So I wish him the best. We are happy and excited – not only the players but the supporters as well. I wish him the best and let’s hope that next year we’re going to win trophies.”
Ronaldo has now amassed a total of 142 goals and 71 assists in 330 appearances for the Red Devils during his two spells at the club and is under contract at Old Trafford until 2023 with the option of an additional 12 months.
