How Pogba's injury could lead to Ronaldo's Man Utd exit

Robin Bairner

29 Jul 2022 11:09 BST
3 min read

Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Pogba, Man Utd, 2021/22 — © ProShots

Paul Pogba could be part responsible if Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Manchester United for Atletico Madrid this summer.

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Although Enrique Cerezo, Atleti’s president, has said that it is “practically impossible” that Ronaldo moves to the Wanda Metropolitano, rumours continue to link the Man Utd player with a return to Spain.

Meanwhile, the 37-year-old has taken to Instagram to call the rumours "lies".

Although there are a couple of hurdles that need to be overcome if the unlikely deal is to be completed – including winning over a large section of the club’s support, who have protested against the idea of the signing – the biggest issue is Atleti’s wage bill.

In order for Ronaldo to join the capital side, his huge salary needs to be accommodated. He is willing to do his part, with a 30% pay reduction, but the Primera Division outfit will also need to make space on their pay roll.

How could they do this? The easiest way is to sell some big-earning players. Antoine Griezmann is one man who has been earmarked for a departure to make way for Ronaldo, but offloading the World Cup winner alone will not be enough for Atleti to create sufficient room. Saul Niguez is another footballer who could be on his way – and this is where Pogba comes in.

Pogba could open door to Ronaldo transfer

Pogba arrived at Juventus in the summer on a free transfer from Manchester United and is expected to be their key figure. However, the France international has picked up an injury that could see him sidelined until early 2023. If this is the case, Juventus will be forced back into the transfer market.

Saul is one player they are reportedly targeting. The Spaniard is attainable, too. He has been increasingly peripheral to Diego Simeone’s plans at Atletico Madrid and spent a season on loan at Chelsea, where he was ultimately disappointing. This has done little to dissuade Juve of his qualities.

Should Saul move to Turin because of Pogba’s injury, that would mean Ronaldo’s transfer to Atletico Madrid would become more possible.