The “Last Dance” at Old Trafford? Ronaldo’s Shock Ultimatum to Michael Carrick
Manchester, UK — February 2026
In a week that has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, the “CR7” saga has taken its most dramatic turn yet. After nearly three years in Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly signaled his intent to leave Al Nassr, citing a feeling of “betrayal” by the club’s hierarchy.
But the real bombshell isn’t just his exit—it’s his destination. Emerging reports suggest that the 41-year-old icon has set his sights on a final, redemptive return to Manchester United. However, this homecoming comes with a massive caveat. Ronaldo has allegedly told newly-appointed United head coach Michael Carrick that he will only sign if two specific conditions are met.
The Fallout: Why Al Nassr “Betrayed” CR7
The tension in Riyadh reached a breaking point this month when Ronaldo went on a highly publicized “strike,” missing Al Nassr’s victory over Al-Riyadh. Sources close to the player suggest Ronaldo feels the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has shifted its focus and resources toward rivals Al-Hilal—most notably by facilitating Karim Benzema’s blockbuster move there while Al Nassr’s squad remained stagnant.
> “He feels the promises made regarding the project’s growth around him haven’t been kept,” a source revealed. “For Cristiano, it’s about winning, and he no longer feels Al Nassr is positioned to do that.”
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The Carrick Connection
With Michael Carrick recently taking the reins at Old Trafford following the departure of Ruben Amorim, the door has swung open for a “Last Dance.” Carrick and Ronaldo shared a dressing room for years and maintained a professional respect during Carrick’s brief stint as interim manager in 2021.
Ronaldo is reportedly willing to make a “historic financial sacrifice,” slashing his astronomical £500,000-a-day salary to fit into United’s new, disciplined wage structure. But it’s not the money he’s worried about—it’s the authority.
The Two Conditions: What Ronaldo Demands
According to leaked reports from Portuguese outlet A Bola and corroborated by local Manchester sources, Ronaldo’s return hinges on these two promises from Carrick:
| Condition | Description |
|—|—|
| 1. Guaranteed Tactical Role | Ronaldo requires a system built to maximize his finishing, rather than being asked to lead a high-intensity press—a point of contention that famously led to his fallout with Erik ten Hag. |
| 2. Coaching Influence | Ronaldo wants a formal “Player-Mentor” status, giving him a seat at the table for dressing-room culture and youth development decisions, ensuring the “United DNA” he feels has been lost is restored. |
Can United Pull It Off?
The move is polarizing. While some fans are desperate to see the legendary No. 7 retire in a United shirt, others fear a repeat of the 2022 drama. However, with United currently sitting 7th in the Premier League and struggling for goals, Carrick might see Ronaldo as the short-term clinical edge needed to secure Champions League football.
The clock is ticking. With the MLS and Sporting CP also lurking, the ball is firmly in Michael Carrick’s court. Will he promise the icon what he wants to bring him home?
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