As Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Manchester United after 12 long years, NT KURIOCITY asks locals how they feel about – Ronald joining the squad, what it offers Manchester United, their chances in the English Premier League and the impact on other players in the squad
Ronaldo’s departure was painful since he was the best player in our squad in 2009, but it brings even more joy today that he’s back home where he belongs. A player like him, who has that drive and will to always be at the top, will help Manchester United succeed and boost confidence, and enhance the squad’s mindset to be champions, which I’m really excited to see. I honestly think it may take some time to get accustomed to the new signings but we’ve got winners and we are ready. I can’t wait to see them lifting some silverware at the end of this season.
Zubin Da Cruz, owner of KICKS – Infinity Futsal, Loutolim & Frontman of the band True Blue, Loutolim
It’s been a big surprise for all the United fans as it has been an unexpected transfer. It will be a big boost to the squad and it will bring a winning mentality and they will definitely score more goals with Ronaldo. Chances are better than before as United have the good squad, so I’m really excited to see what will happen. Other players will be motivated with the introduction of a player who has a winning mentality and has won almost everything throughout his career.
Alesh Sawant, ex- Churchill Brothers, Dempo FC, Sporting Club de Goa, Salgaonkar FC player, Siolim
The news of Cristiano coming back to Old Trafford still feels like a dream. My first United jersey my dad bought for me had Ronaldo’s name on the back. Since then Ronaldo and Man United were inseparable for me. Manchester United had an amazing transfer window this summer with great squad depth, signing of CR7 was the final piece to the puzzle. Cristiano joining United will improve our attack options and take charge in front, which will surely inspire young United lads. Cristiano is a born leader. He has done it before, and will surely do wonders this season for United.
Akash Parab, engineer, Vasco
Absolutely chuffed to say the very least. Getting the chance to watch him don the red Jersey again feels very surreal and I don’t think many fans believe or have grasped the fact yet. It’s an absolute dream to have him back at Old Trafford, and getting to hear ‘Viva Ronaldo’ grace the lips of fans again will bring goose bumps to all the United faithful. Ronaldo, who has had one of the most stellar careers in world football, definitely will bring a wealth of experience and a strong winning mentality to the whole squad. Especially after last season, having missed out narrowly in the Europa League and finishing runners-up in the Premier League, the squad needed that little something to lift the spirits and take the team to the next step. Along with the likes of Varane and Sancho this season, Ronaldo will certainly give us that opportunity to challenge against the very best teams for silverware. Apart from everything else, I’m looking forward to how much our youngsters like Greenwood, Sancho, Rashford will benefit and learn from one of the greatest players of all time every day.
Graham Alphonsus, from Margao working as a marketing associate, Dubai
Cristiano Ronaldo coming back to Manchester United is a nostalgic feeling. I feel like a kid again, the spirit of Old Trafford, old memories of him scoring those beautiful goals and dazzling the crowd with his skills. It’s been 12 years since he last played for Manchester United, but what Ronaldo brings to the squad is the stubborn winning mentality which United possessed under Sir Alex Ferguson. With United already stacked up with quality players like Bruno, Pogba, Sancho, Varane, Greenwood and Shaw and Cavani, Ronaldo gives them an extra edge in goal conversion rate and hopefully will nullify the void of a defensive midfield player by scoring those goals and a probable shot at the English Premier League title. As far as Ronaldo’s abilities are concerned we know he’s a proven serial winner and hope he can rub off that little magic on the young brigade of Manchester United.
Austin Dias, Raia
After 12 years, the king is finally back in the theatre of dreams and it is indeed a dream come true moment for United and football fans all around the world. This transfer window has been amazing for the reds as they bagged one of the best talents in world football currently, Jadon Sancho and over achiever center back Raphael Varane, the Ronaldo news came as the cherry on top. The new team looks perfectly balanced with a mixture of young and experienced players; moreover the bench strength has also increased making them one of the favourites to win this year’s EPL. The inclusion of a superstar like CR7 will also act as a huge boost to the young players of United and the fans can’t wait any more to chant “VIVA RONALDO” once again in the Old Trafford.
Warren Noronha, event freelancer, Navelim
