Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese striker who has not been registered with a club in the period following his departure from Manchester United, has been named among the year’s disappointments by a prominent sports publication. This designation comes as part of a broader list that highlighted several high-profile players whose seasons underperformed expectations, including Eden Hazard, Joao Felix, Paul Pogba, Jadon Sancho, Philippe Coutinho, Arthur, Elias Moriba, Timo Werner, and Gareth Bale. The compilation reflects a sense of disappointment around the top names who faced form dips, injuries, or turbulent team situations during the year.
Ronaldo, 38, found himself without a club after parting ways with Manchester United in late 2022 following a highly publicized interview with broadcaster Piers Morgan that criticized the club’s management and policies. The decision was mutually agreed upon as both parties sought a fresh direction. He later signed with Al Nassr in January 2023, continuing his illustrious career in a new league and bringing his vast experience to the Saudi Pro League. The move marked a new chapter, allowing Ronaldo to maintain his competitive edge on a fresh stage while contributing to the growth of football in the region.
On the international stage, Ronaldo and the Portugal national team were eliminated from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in the quarterfinals after a dramatic group of matches. In the round of the quarterfinals, Portugal suffered a surprising defeat to Morocco with a final scoreline that underscored the unpredictable nature of the tournament and the high level of competition among the world’s best teams. The broader narrative of Ronaldo’s year includes the ongoing debate about his role in national and club football, his fitness, and how his leadership influences teammates as new generations rise through the ranks.
Beyond the World Cup and domestic leagues, there has been speculation about Ronaldo’s future moves and potential returns to European competition. A number of insiders and commentators weighed in with predictions about possible destinations, while agents and analysts analyzed market dynamics, contract considerations, and the evolving landscape of professional football. In this context, Ronaldo’s name continues to attract widespread attention from fans, pundits, and clubs alike, reflecting his enduring impact on the sport and his ability to command headlines regardless of the league or country. [Citation: Sports publications and press coverage].