Embattled Portuguese Star Possibly Returning To Real Madrid, Old Trafford Drama Heats Up

Cristiano Ronaldo is focused on helping Portugal in the 2022 World Cup. However, critics are worried that the issues the 37-year-old has with Manchester United could hamper him from giving his best.

And it appears the issue is far from dying down. The many-time Ballon d'Or winner has allegedly offered himself to his former team, Real Madrid, on a six-month contract according to Sport.

The outlet claims that Ronaldo wants to return to the Spanish giants, a team he played for from 2009 to 2018. It appears the Portuguese star feels he can be a suitable replacement for an injured Karim Benzema who is sidelined due to a thigh injury.

As mentioned in a previous report here on International Business Times, Benzema will be out for at least three weeks and will miss the chance to play for France in the 2022 World Cup.

Ronaldo remains under fire for the comments he made when he spoke with Piers Morgan. In that interview, the 37-year-old criticized Old Trafford bosses, and most speculate that Ronaldo is likely on his way out, possibly by the January transfer window.

Ronaldo felt that the Red Devils had betrayed him, taking a shot at US owners, manager Erik ten Hag, the club's facilities, his teammates and former Red Devils players, including Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville.

As things stand, Man Utd. is reportedly looking to terminate the contract of four-time European Golden Shoe winner rather than fire him for breach of contract, the Daily Mail reported.

The Red Devils are looking to terminate Ronaldo's contract seven months early without paying the £16 million ($18.96 million) he is due to make by June 2023.

Despite the issues that Ronaldo is facing, the Portugal captain stressed on Instagram that his main focus is to help his country win the World Cup.

"Good energies, good feelings, the same commitment and the same concentration that we put into each challenge. Focus! Determination! Belief! Wherever we are, Portugal, always!" Ronaldo posted.

Unfortunately, it appears Real Madrid has opted not to make a move for Ronaldo, a development that could complicate the exit of the Portuguese forward from Old Trafford, Marca reported.

The Spanish giants are not expected to make a move for Ronaldo or any striker in the winter window.