If reports that the 23-year-old will undergo surgery next week to cure
a long-standing ankle problem are correct, Ronaldo looks sure to miss
the first few weeks of the new season.
He has been subject of a prolonged tug-of-war, at least in the media,
between Manchester United and Real Madrid, who are reportedly willing
to pay a world record transfer fee to take him to the Bernabeu.
The Spanish champions have been publicly courting the winger, who
scored 42 goals for United last season, despite United's insistence
that he is not for sale.
However, since Portugal's involvement in Euro 2008 ended, the
intensity of Real's unsettling campaign appears to have lessened,
suggesting that Ronaldo will be staying at Old Trafford, as United have
said he would all along.
The English and European champions seem more concerned with the
player's fitness than any transfer rumours, especially with reports now
suggesting he will go under the knife to clear up his ankle injury once
and for all.
Surgery is expected next week, and would force Ronaldo to miss United's
pre-season preparations - and to go through a six-week rehabilitation
period.
On Thursday, United's medical staff met Ronaldo and representatives
from the Portugal national side to discuss the player's injury.
The problem affected Ronaldo's performances during Euro 2008.
A statement from his club said: "Manchester United's medical staff met
with the medical team from the Portuguese FA and Cristiano Ronaldo in
Lisbon regarding the ongoing treatment of his injured right ankle.
"As a result, further specialist advice is being sought and an announcement will be made on any action in due course."
A United source has also described a mooted £70million transfer of
Ronaldo to Real Madrid as "utter nonsense and totally laughable."
my ankle also today kana bad landing.. =( i aso will miss start of season.. sorry red devil fans.. i'll come back with ronaldo.. =P
is that why he has decided to stay??