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Gary Lineker sends Cristiano Ronaldo message as he completes Man Utd transfer return
Gary Lineker has reacted to the news that Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Manchester United.
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Gary Lineker has welcomed Cristiano Ronaldo back to the Premier League following his sensational return to Manchester United. The Red Devils announced that they had completed the transfer of Ronaldo from Juventus on Tuesday morning.
Ronaldo’s arrival culminates a remarkable few days, which started on Thursday when the legendary forward decided he wanted to leave Juventus.
United’s fierce rivals Manchester City initially led the race to sign Ronaldo, with some reports suggesting that a deal was close.
But United jumped ahead of the queue on Friday. They confirmed a deal had been agreed in principle later that evening.
Ronaldo has returned to the club 12 years after leaving for Real Madrid in a then-world record £90million transfer.
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He returns in a move worth around £20m and will earn a huge £500,000 per week across a two-year contract.
The 36-year-old became an iconic figure at Old Trafford after initially arriving in 2003. Several former players have sent messages celebrating the transfer.
And former England striker Lineker has said that it is ‘fabulously exciting’ for the Portugal icon to be back in the Premier League.
“Fabulously exciting signing for @ManUtd fans and the Premier League,” Lineker responded to United’s official confirmation of the transfer. “Welcome back to the great @Cristiano.”
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Ronaldo is currently in Portugal preparing for his country’s upcoming international fixtures. He could break the international scoring record if he nets against Ireland on Wednesday.
The striker, who scored 118 goals in 292 appearances during his first spell, has told United fans that he cannot wait to play in front of them at Old Trafford again.
“Manchester United is a club that has always had a special place in my heart, and I have been overwhelmed by all the messages I have received since the announcement on Friday,” Ronaldo said after his transfer was confirmed.
“I cannot wait to play at Old Trafford in front of a full stadium and see all the fans again.
Fabulously exciting signing for @ManUtd fans and the Premier League. Welcome back to the great @Cristiano. https://t.co/zrHK8xBOoJ
— Gary Lineker ������ (@GaryLineker) August 31, 2021
“I'm looking forward to joining up with the team after the international games, and I hope we have a very successful season ahead.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hailed the impact Ronaldo can have at Old Trafford.
“You run out of words to describe Cristiano. He is not only a marvellous player, but also a great human being,” the Norwegian said.
“To have the desire and the ability to play at the top level for such a long period requires a very special person.
“I have no doubt that he will continue to impress us all and his experience will be so vital for the younger players in the squad.
“Ronaldo’s return demonstrates the unique appeal of this club and I am absolutely delighted he is coming home to where it all started.”