In a dramatic twist that has reignited speculation, Cristiano Ronaldo has teased the possibility of joining Manchester City in the upcoming January transfer window. This comes amid reports that Pep Guardiola is considering reuniting with Lionel Messi to address Manchester City’s current slump. The potential moves could reshape narratives in the Premier League and beyond as two of soccer’s greatest stars are linked to bold and unexpected transfers.
Manchester City, a team known for its dominance under Pep Guardiola, is enduring an uncharacteristic decline. With just one win in 13 games and a growing injury crisis leaving nine players sidelined, the Citizens’ title hopes are teetering before the turn of the year. Guardiola has acknowledged the urgent need for reinforcements in January, particularly in midfield.
Lionel Messi enters. Previous reports suggest that Guardiola is exploring a six -month loan contract for Argentine legend. Messi, who prospered under the command of Spanish in his days in Barcelona, can desperately provide the city leadership and creativity. As speculation increases, the 37 -year -old man’s option dressed in the city’s blue is tempting for both enthusiasts and experts.
Amid the rumors about Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo made waves at the Globe Soccer awards in Dubai, where he was asked about his option to join Manchester City. The Portuguese icon, who most recently plays for al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, refused to exclude this option. “You never know what will happen,” Ronaldo said with a smile, leaving the door open for a sensational transfer. When the interviewer insisted, “No is a no!” Ronaldo laughed but declined to elaborate.
The Portuguese veteran’s response has sparked speculation, particularly given his previous near-transfer to City in 2021. At the time, Manchester United intervened to secure his return to Old Trafford, a move that ended tumultuously after his public fallout with the club and manager Erik Ten Hag.
His comments about the city’s existing shape took on an encouraging tone, indicating confidence in the team’s ability to recover. “Teams have moments: difficult moments, wise moments. The city is going through a difficult time, but I am one hundred percent sure they will come back,” he said. “Great groups and wonderful players are wise enough to perceive where the challenge lies. Guardiola is a very wise coach who knows where the challenge comes from.
Given his history with Manchester United, Ronaldo joining Manchester City would certainly be controversial. The 39-year-old made over two hundred appearances for the Red Devils in two spells and remains a respected figure among United supporters despite his popularity. A move to their Crosstown rivals would threaten alienation to a significant portion of their fan base.
To further complicate matters, Ronaldo criticized City’s Rodri at the Globe Soccer Awards, calling his recent Ballon d’Or win unfair. “It was unfair, in my opinion. They gave it to Rodrigo. He deserved it too, but I think they gave it to Vinícius [Jr. ] because he won the Champions League and scored in the final,” Ronaldo commented, praising at the extreme of Real Madrid.
In addition, the possible move of the city by the Portuguese is opposed to the context of a long-standing rivalry with Guardiola. During his time at Real Madrid, Ronaldo faced Guardiola’s Barcelona in La Liga and Champions League matches.