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Manchester United Make Surprise Signing of Cristiano Ronaldo Despite Manchester City’s Efforts

Back to where it all began… Manchester United stunned the soccer universe on Friday when the club landed its former prodigy, Cristiano Ronaldo. The futbol legend was also in talks with rival Manchester City before opting to sign with his former team and return to the Red Devils for the late stages of his career. Ronaldo, 36, played six seasons with Man-U from 2003 to 2009 where he first began his ascent into soccer royalty. He scored 118 goals in 292 matches with Man-U before a decade at Real Madrid and the past three seasons with Juventus.

Fun Fact: Manchester United’s post announcing the return of Ronaldo garnered a record-setting 12.7 million likes (and counting) on Instagram — the most in the history of the social media platform.

How the Deal Got Done

United swung the Juventus attacker for a fee of only €20 million, plus “add-ons” that don’t include Ronaldo’s wages. He did agree to a €6 million pay cut, making his annual salary €23 million per year.

The transfer window closes tomorrow night, but one of the world’s greatest playes is heading back to where it all began.

Additional Storylines

ESPN: Here’s Why Ronaldo’s Return to Manchester United Shocked the Soccer World

SI: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man United Return is Nostalgic, But Lacks Football Sense

 THE HIGHLIGHTS

️ MLB: Wander Franco’s On-Base Streak to 29

Rays 20-year-old shortstop Wander Franco reached base for the 29th consecutive game on Sunday against the Orioles, joining Hall of Famers Mickey Mantle, Mel Ott, Arky Caughan and Frank Robinson as the only players to accomplish that feat under the age of 21.

 CFB: Illinois Tops Nebraska in CFB Opener

College football’s season-opener took place in the Big Ten on Saturday with Illinois holding off Nebraska (30-22) in the first game under new head coach Bret Bielema. Illinois backup QB Artur Sitkowski delivered 124 yards and 2 TDs. The true Week 1 of the college football season begins this Saturday.

️ SOCCER: Lionel Messi Makes PSG Debut

Paris Saint-Germain were 2-0 winners over Stade Reims on Sunday thanks to a brace from Kylian Mbappe, but the big story was the debut of newly acquired Lionel Messi. Messi subbed into the match for Neymar in the 66th minute to an overwhelming ovation from the PSG faithful. He didn’t score, but a new era in Paris has begun.

 NASCAR: Blaney Takes Daytona 400, Playoffs Set

Ryan Blaney was the last man on top after a dramatic overtime finish in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway. The race included 45 lead changes before Blaney’s second straight Cup Series victory. Bubba Wallace and Ryan Newman finished second and third, respectively. The playoff field of 16 is now set.

 BOXING: Paul Defeats Woodley by Split Decision

The latest chapter in the Jake Paul celebrity boxing saga got an interesting boost Sunday night in Cleveland. Paul defeated professional MMA fighter and former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley in a split decision (77-75, 75-77, 78-74). The internet sensation is now 4-0 in his young career.

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