Atletico Madrid did not sign Cristiano Ronaldo in 2022, despite the rumors that linked him with the club. The president Enrique Cerezo has spoken about the rumors and revealed the truth.
What happened in 2022?
In 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo was looking for a new challenge after feeling unsatisfied at Manchester United. His agent, Jorge Mendes, was exploring possible destinations for the Portuguese player, and Atletico Madrid was one of the clubs mentioned. However, Cerezo assures that the club was never a realistic option for Ronaldo.
Why didn't the transfer happen?
Ronaldo had left Real Madrid several years before, joining Juventus in 2018. He spent three seasons in Turin, winning two Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia before returning to Manchester United in 2021. Cerezo suggests that the simplest option for Ronaldo would have been to stay in the place where he lived at the time.
What comes next?
Atletico Madrid currently sits in fourth place in La Liga, with 57 points and a +19 goal difference in the 2025-2026 season. The club has 51 goals scored and 32 goals conceded. The league is in a critical moment, with 22 points of difference with the leaders, Barcelona. Atletico Madrid's next match is on February 21, 2027, against Elche at their home stadium.
