By Dorcas Francis Koji
Cristiano Ronaldo has been ranked 10th among the greatest players in Manchester United’s history in a newly released all-time list compiled by The Athletic, sparking fresh debate among football fans over the Portuguese icon’s place in the club’s rich legacy.
The ranking, published following extensive analysis of Manchester United’s greatest-ever stars, places Ronaldo inside the top 10 despite his remarkable achievements across two spells at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo first joined United from Sporting CP in 2003 as a teenage sensation before developing into one of world football’s finest players under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson. During his initial six-year spell, he won three Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, two League Cups and the FA Cup.
The Portuguese forward also claimed his first Ballon d’Or in 2008 after scoring 42 goals in all competitions, establishing himself as one of the club’s most influential attacking players before completing a then world-record move to Real Madrid in 2009.
He returned to Manchester United in 2021 amid huge fanfare, scoring 24 goals across all competitions in his comeback season. However, his second stint ended controversially following an explosive television interview that led to the mutual termination of his contract in November 2022.
Despite the turbulent ending to his United career, The Athletic acknowledged Ronaldo’s immense contribution to the club, citing his individual brilliance, trophy haul and transformation from promising youngster into one of football’s greatest players.
The ranking was topped by Northern Ireland legend George Best, whose dazzling skill and flair made him one of the most iconic figures in football history. Sir Bobby Charlton, widely regarded as one of Manchester United’s greatest servants, finished second, while former captain Bryan Robson completed the top three.
Other club legends featured ahead of Ronaldo include Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney, Denis Law, Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and Peter Schmeichel.
Ronaldo’s inclusion in the top 10 comes despite fierce competition from several other United greats, highlighting the lasting impact he made during his time at Old Trafford.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains one of Manchester United’s most celebrated modern-era players, having scored 145 goals in 346 appearances across both spells with the club.
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