Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo says his return to Old Trafford is not a vacation and he hopes to prove himself again with consistent performances over the next three to four years.
The 36-year-old Portuguese spent six seasons at United between 2003-09, winning eight major trophies, and rejoined them from Juventus last month on a two-year contract.
Having been handed the Premier League club’s famous number seven jersey once again, Ronaldo is hoping to reach the heights he did in his first spell at the club.
“This is why I’m here,” Ronaldo said in an interview posted on United’s website on Thursday. “I’m not here for a vacation... Before was good, winning important things and I wore the shirt before many years ago.
“But I’m here to win again. I’m capable, me and my team mates. I’m ready to go. It’s a good chance for me, for the supporters, for the club, to get one step ahead. “I think I will be a huge thing in the next three or four years.”
Ronaldo, who has scored 118 goals for United, could make his second debut for the club when they take on Newcastle United in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Meanwhile, former captain Wayne Rooney thinks Ronaldo is capable of playing until he is 40 as he has adapted his playing style to extend his career.
Ronaldo, 36, spent six seasons at Old Trafford between 2003-09, winning eight major trophies, and rejoined United from Juventus last month on a two-year contract.
“The last time he played here, he was more of a runner, a great dribbler, with pace and power,” said Rooney, now managing second division Championship side Derby County. “Whereas now, he’s a goal-scorer. I think his game has adapted dramatically.”
Rooney, United’s all-time top scorer, added that his former team mate is a “completely different player” to the one that left the club 12 years ago but can still keep up with the physical demands of the Premier League.
“His ability is obviously one thing, but then he’s also looked after himself massively ... he’s still in great condition. It wouldn’t surprise me if he’s playing until he’s 40, like Ryan Giggs did, and still scoring goals.
“His team mates will have to work a little harder. But if it’s anything like last time —towards the last two years of playing with him -- the team allowed him to do that because he scores you goals and goals win you games.”
Ronaldo, who scored 118 goals for United during his first spell, is expected to feature when they take on Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday.
