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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Steven Railston

Wayne Rooney gives shock verdict on Cristiano Ronaldo with Manchester United future in doubt

Wayne Rooney doesn't think the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo 'has worked' at Manchester United this season.

Ronaldo sealed a sensational return to Old Trafford last summer. The forward has scored 18 goals in 33 games across all competitions this season, but United's decision to bring him back to the club has been regularly questioned.

Although United were expected to challenge for the Premier League title this season, they've been reduced to fighting for Champions League football instead and their hopes of finishing in the top four now look unlikely after Saturday's draw against Leicester. Rooney was asked about his former teammate on Monday night and he admitted he doesn't think his return 'has worked'.

ALSO READ: Manchester United dressing room split over possible Erik ten Hag appointment.

The United legend also revealed his desire for United to prioritise younger signings to take the club forward.

"You'd have to say no [it hasn't worked] at the minute," Rooney told Sky Sports. "He's scored goals, important goals in the Champions League earlier on in the season, he scored the hat-trick against Tottenham.

"But I think if you're looking at the future of the club, you have to go with younger, hungry players to lift Manchester United over the next two or three years. Obviously Cristiano is getting on a bit and he's obviously not the player he was when he was in his 20s.

"That happens, that's football. He's a goal threat, the rest of the game, I think they need more younger and more hungry players."

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