Cristiano Ronaldo approves new managerial appointment

Cristiano Ronaldo’s connection with United stretches across two spells at Old Trafford, with the forward establishing himself as one of the best players in the club’s modern history.

His first spell saw him develop from a talented teenager into a global superstar, winning three Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, the Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

He returned to Manchester in 2021 after leaving Juventus, adding another chapter to his United story before departing the club by mutual agreement in November 2022.

Across his two spells, Ronaldo scored 145 goals in 346 appearances for United, with 118 of those goals coming during his first stint.

Away from Old Trafford, Ronaldo’s international career has continued to produce historic numbers, with the Portugal captain becoming the nation’s record goalscorer and the most-capped player in men’s international football.

Portugal’s federation currently lists him with 226 senior appearances and 143 goals.

He has also helped Portugal win three major international trophies, Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles, giving him a unique place in the country’s football history.

The 2026 World Cup provided another remarkable chapter, with Ronaldo becoming the first player to score at six different World Cups after finding the net twice against Uzbekistan.

Portugal ultimately finished second in Group K after drawing 1-1 with DR Congo, beating Uzbekistan 5-0 and drawing 0-0 with Colombia before overcoming Croatia 2-1 in the first knockout round.

Their tournament ended in the next round, however, as Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in Dallas, bringing Ronaldo’s World Cup career to an end after six appearances.

Cristiano Ronaldo approves new managerial appointment

Ronaldo has now turned his attention towards a new chapter for the national team, with Roberto Martinez replaced by Jorge Jesus.

Speaking about the managerial change, the former United forward praised Martínez before backing Jesus to lead Portugal into the future.

“It’s a new era. I take this opportunity to congratulate coach Martinez for the excellent work he has done, being of another nationality, which is very difficult, due to the constant attacks he faced.

“It’s a new era with coach Jorge Jesus. I’m sure he will do an excellent job.

“Jorge Jesus was a perfect choice. Different tactics, different language. I wish things go as well as possible. We are all confident.

“I think the team is prepared, it will be a long challenge, the coach will stay for many years.

“I’m sure it was the best option,” he said in a press conference, as relayed by A Bola.

Portugal will face Wales on 24 September before travelling to take on Norway on 27 September.

They will then play Denmark on 1 October before hosting Norway again on 4 October, with all four matches forming part of their 2026/27 Nations League campaign.