- Former Nigeria captain claimed Ronaldo’s actions will deter future moves
Nigerian-born and former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has weighed in on Cristiano Ronaldo’s tumultuous exit from Manchester United.
After enduring a highly-publicised dispute with Erik ten Hag since the Dutchman’s arrival at Old Trafford, Ronaldo’s relationship with the club deteriorated significantly after he made a number of explosive comments in TalkTV interview earlier this month.
The two warring parties ultimately agreed to mutually terminate Ronaldo’s contract, and the 37-year-old is expected to continue his club career after returning from the World Cup.
John Obi Mikel has claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo’s action leading up to his departure from Manchester United were ‘horrific’
However, Mikel explained that he believes that Ronaldo’s antics off the pitch could deter clubs from being interested in signing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
‘I’ve never been a Ronaldo fan really,’ the former Nigeria captain told Dubai Eye.
‘For me, when a player has so much ego, I don’t really get it. He’s never been one of my favourite players and that’s why I always go for Messi really.’
‘I mean, if someone comes out and gives such an interview, what makes you think, if he signs for your club in January, he won’t do the same?’.
Despite his disappointment with Ronaldo’s actions, the 35-year-old conceded that the Portugal captain will always have suitors ready to sign him due to his immense talent.
‘Listen, he is Cristiano Ronaldo; he’s one of the greatest players ever to have played the game. I think he’s going to get another club in January and continue his football career.
‘But for me, it’s just a horrible scenario, he’s done so much for the club, and to see it end this way, it’s just horrible. On his part really, I would say that interview shouldn’t have been done, wrong timing as well.
‘It’s just not right. It doesn’t look right for such a player that has achieved so much in the game.’
Mikel famously almost played alongside Ronaldo, during a protracted transfer saga of his own.
In 2005 the Nigerian was pictured wearing in a Manchester United shirt in a proposed move from Norwegian club Lyn.
The transfer would fall through however, after Mikel instead opted to make the move to Stamford Bridge where would go on to make 372 appearances in all competitions.
