Terrace Talk

The arrival of Dimitar Berbatov has strengthened our attacking force, but could this move be the catalyst for Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure?

As you have noticed, last season, due to the lack of a striking options, Ronaldo was more of a striker than a winger. By the end of the season I got used to seeing our 4-4-2 formation turn into a 4-3-2-1, with Wayne Rooney on the left, Carlos Tevez on the right and Ronaldo moving up-front.

And Ronnie did very well. He scored more goals with his head, than he used to, many more through penetrating runs into the opposing defense and entering the box.

Now, with Berbatov in the squad, Ronnie will have to return to his original role as winger. The last time we were in such a situation, Ruud Van Nistelrooy was playing for United. After the “Flying Dutchman” left for Real Madrid, I read many posts, in which United fans were accusing Ronaldo for Ruud’s departure. Could the history repeat itself in reverse?

Sir Alex could put Ronaldo back where he belongs or pair him with Berbatov, and bench Rooney and Tevez. He decides to pair Ronnie with Berba, while Wazza or Carlitos could play on the wing instead of Ronaldo. Eitherway, I’m afraid that Cristiano Ronaldo has gotten used to playing up-front and won’t be very happy to return to the wings. If that happens he could seek a move away from Old Trafford next summer or even in the January transfer period.