It’s been some 12 years since the Portuguese forward graced the corridors of the Theatre of Dreams, and in that time his superstar status has only continued to sky rocket.
And despite being 36, Ronaldo’s financial power – even from just football alone – is showing no signs of wavering.
Manchester United had little hesitation in making Cristiano Ronaldo the top earner at the club to seal his return to Old Trafford last month.
His commercial appeal does give United plenty of scope to reap the rewards of his signing away from the field, though.
United even managed to agree with Juventus to stagger the payment installments to structure it as five amounts of €3m.
His presence at the club will also increase the likelihood of United attracting more sponsors to add to their ever-growing list of partnerships.
Ronaldo counts sportswear giants Nike, watchmakers Tag Heuer, Herbalife and Clear Haircare among his sponsors, while also possessing his own CR7 brand, which includes but isn’t limited to investments in hotels and clothing.
In fact, it was United’s own commercial power which helped them bring Ronaldo back to the club, as his signing was not originally part of their summer plans.
But Ronaldo has insisted he is not just here to make up the numbers and cash in on a big payday.
Asked if he felt United could win trophies this season, he replied: “This is why I am here. I am not here for a vacation.
“Before was good, winning important things and I wore the shirt before, many years ago, but I am here to win again.
“I am capable, me and my team-mates. I am ready to go, I am ready to go. It is a good chance for me, for the supporters, for the club, to get one step ahead.
“I am ready and I think I will be a huge thing in the next three or four years.”
