Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to what was once his home and is training at Real Madrid’s facilities in Valdebebas.
The Portugal forward, currently a free agent, trained alone and well apart Los Blancos’ first team.
Having agreed to end his deal with Manchester United just before the World Cup, Ronaldo left Qatar without a club and his future still in the air.
His work ethic remains as ever, though, and he asked to be allowed to stay in shape at Real Madrid’s training complex.
The Spanish club were only too happy to accept his request, showing the good relationship that still exists between both parties.
That said, no one should make the mistake of reading too much into this.
Special return
There is no chance of Cristiano Ronaldo re-signing for Real Madrid.
Despite the fact he would command no transfer fee, the club are not considering making any offer and are merely allowing him the use of their facilities as a favour.
Ronaldo may well be savouring the experience in any case, using the chance to return to Valdebebas to remember the many great memories he made wearing all-white.
He had nine trophy-laden years as a Madridista before moving on to Juventus and Manchester United.
Al-Nassr
Although nothing is official, the talk is that Ronaldo’s next destination will almost certainly be Saudi Arabia and Al-Nassr.
The 37-year-old is expected to sign a two-and-a-half-year deal imminently.
Al-Nassr are currently second in the Saudi Pro League after eight games played.
Notable current players include Cameroon’s Vincent Aboubakar and former Brazil international Luiz Gustavo.
