Recently, Cristiano Ronaldo scored a magnificent hat-trick against Norwich City, bringing Manchester United back into top-four contention in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal faced their third consecutive loss of the season. On Saturday, the Gunners seemed to lack a cutting-edge forward during their 0-1 defeat against Southampton. Arsenal’s defeat against Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur’s loss to Brighton means the United are only three points away from clinching the fourth spot. However, things could have been completely different for the Red Devils if Ronaldo did not pull off a stunner in Old Trafford.
The Portuguese national scored three goals against Dean Smith’s team to get a much-needed victory for Manchester United. However, Ronaldo’s future at the United is uncertain after Ajax manager Erik ten Hag is rumored to join the Red Devils as their next permanent boss. Hence, former British footballer Ian Wright believes that Ronaldo is exactly what Arsenal needs to change their fortunes.
Ian Wright Advises Arsenal To Hire Ronaldo Next Season
While talking to Premier League productions, Wright shared that Ronaldo has scored 13 points alone from scoring winning goals. Ian believes that the United would have been nowhere near they are if Ronaldo was not playing for them. Cristiano has delivered what he is paid for, and he has proved his worth once again. The former British football player added, “That’s exactly what Arsenal needs.”
The Gunners entered the international break with five wins in their last six Premier League matches. However, Arsenal had to face consistent defeats from Crystal Palace, Brighton, Hove Albion, and the Saints. Meanwhile, Manchester also had some tough phases. But, they still managed to push themselves back into the top-four race, only because of Cristiano Ronaldo. The 37-year-old also played a crucial role in United’s last two victories against the East Anglians and Tottenham.
Meanwhile, the Gunners attempted 23 shots against Southampton over the weekend. However, they could not break the spell from the Saints goalkeeper Fraser Forster, who put up a clean sheet against Arsenal. The Gunners would have returned with three points in the bag if they had a clinical performance from a skilled forward in the final third.
Is Ronaldo Leaving Manchester United?
Several reports suggest that Ajax Manager Erik ten Hag is expected to be announced as the next permanent coach for Manchester Football Club. He reportedly has allowed Ronaldo to depart the club. CR7 has scored 21 goals this season for the Red Devils in 33 appearances. However, some United fans blame Ronaldo for the stagnant performances of Marcus Rashford. Hence, Ronaldo has been given the green light by the upcoming manager to find a new home next season.
The Portuguese superstar will enter the final half of his two-year deal with Manchester at the end of the season. Hence, it would be a wise move from Arsenal to find a way to get Ronaldo on their team. Arteta recently revealed that the Gunners’ lacked finishing during their defeat against Southampton. And Cristiano could provide the finishing touch to the Gunners if they want to get back to the top of the Premier League table.