Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo says Manchester United “betrayed” him, senior figures tried to force him out
Cristiano Ronaldo has blasted Manchester United and manager Erik ten Hag in an incendiary TV interview, saying he feels “betrayed” by the club and that senior figures have tried to force him out of Old Trafford.
The interview is set to be broadcast this week on Britain's TalkTV but advance clips were released late Sunday — just hours after United's final game before the World Cup. Ronaldo was left out of the squad for the second match in a row after the club said he had an undisclosed illness, although the Portugal's star latest comments will increase speculation that he has played his final game for the club.
Read more: Ronaldo back in contention for Manchester United
When asked on the program “Piers Morgan Uncensored” whether United’s hierarchy was trying to force him out of the club, Ronaldo said: “Yes, not only the coach, but another two or three guys around the club. I felt betrayed.”
When quizzed again if senior club executives were trying to oust him, the 37-year-old Portugal star said: “I don’t care. People should listen to the truth.
“Yes, I felt betrayed and I felt like some people don’t want me here, not only this year, but last year too.”
Read more: Forbes Highest-paid Footballers 2022: Mbappe overtakes Messi, Ronaldo
United made no immediate comment.
Ronaldo has been in and out of United's starting lineup this season and refused to come on as a substitute in last month’s win over Tottenham. That led to him being banished from the squad for the subsequent trip to Chelsea, although he then returned to the fold.
Ronaldo inflamed the relationship with Ten Hag even further by saying: “I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me. If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never going have respect for you.”
Read more: Ronaldo controversy overshadows United's victory over Spurs
Ronaldo also claimed United had not progressed as a club since the departure of manager Alex Ferguson in 2013, and criticized the hiring of Ralf Rangnick as interim manager last season after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was fired.
“This guy is not even a coach," Ronaldo said of Rangnick. "A bigger club like Manchester United brings (a) sports director — surprised not only me but all the world, you know.
Messi or Ronaldo: Who has better chance at leading team to FIFA World Cup win?
All-time greats Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have won every possible trophy at club level and also clinched continental championships after reaching their 30s. However, neither of the players won the World Cup, the most prestigious football competition. With age catching up to both of them, the upcoming edition may be their final opportunity to lift the trophy. Let's see who has the best chances of winning the FIFA World Cup 2022 with their respective teams.
How Argentina and Portugal fared in the FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualification
Lionel Messi’s Argentina had a dominant FIFA World Cup qualification, winning 11 matches and drawing six in 17 outings. The Albiceleste finished second in the point standings, just behind Brazil, and booked their place in the main event.
Read More: Meet Laeeb: Mascot of 2022 FIFA World Cup Football Tournament in Qatar
In contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal had to take part in the second round after failing to finish top of Group A’s points table in the UEFA region. The Portuguese side overcame Turkey by 3-1 in Path C’s second semifinal contest and sealed their place in the World Cup after beating North Macedonia 2-0 in the final.
Argentina’s chances of winning the Qatar World Cup 2022
Argentina are ranked third in FIFA's world rankings, and they have shown continuous progress over the last year or so. The team combination, player camaraderie, and coach’s philosophy all favour Argentina to thrive in the upcoming World Cup main event.
The situation was not as favourable for Argentina a few years ago, even captain Lionel Messi was considering quitting international football after their disappointing performance in the 2018 World Cup in Russia. But after a few months of a hiatus, he returned to the national side, and since then, he has been having a great time for Argentina.
One of the main reasons Argentina have been playing great football in the last few years is because of head coach Lionel Scaloni. The former Argentine national team player was appointed after the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Under his guidance, the Albiceleste won the 2021 Copa America in Brazil last year by beating the hosts 1-0 in the final. They also won the 2022 Finalissima last June by beating European champion Italy 3-0. Argentina's national men’s team has remained undefeated in 35 matches and is only three matches shy of surpassing Italy’s longest unbeaten record of 37 matches.
Given their current form, Argentina are considered one of the top favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Argentina will be playing in Group C, where they will meet Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Poland. As it seems, Albiceleste’s Round of 16 qualifications should be easy. If Argentina can maintain their form from the group stage, they could advance to the final by defeating their opponents in the knockout rounds.
Read More: FIFA World Cup 2022: Argentina’s confirmed squad
Argentina’s World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez, Franco Armani, Geronimo Rulli
Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, German Pezzella, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez, Marcos Acuna, Nicolas Tagliafico, Juan Foyth
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Guido Rodriguez, Alejandro Papu Gomez, Enzo Fernandez, Exequiel Palacios
Forwards: Angel Di Maria, Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez, Joaquin Correa, Paulo Dybala, Lionel Messi
Portugal’s chances of winning the FIFA World Cup 2022
Portugal are ninth in FIFA's rankings, but they are not as strong as their talented players. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will be in the race for the Qatar World Cup 2022. However, they are not thought of as one of the strong favourites to win the trophy. Cristiano is unlikely to have a big impact on the team this time given his age and subpar club performances in the ongoing season.
Portugal sometimes struggle to put up their best effort on the field because of a lack of cohesion among the players. The Portuguese side’s head coach is Fernando Santos, who is sometimes criticized for not utilizing his resources properly.
Even though Portugal won the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 under the guidance of Fernando Santos, but in the last year and a half, Portugal have found it difficult to excel in big games. Clearly, this indicates that coach Fernando Santos' pragmatic approach is not helping the team perform to their full potential on the field.
Portugal have some world-class players on their roster and should be the favourite to win the forthcoming big event. However, a lack of cohesiveness within the squad could stymie their progress in the World Cup, and it could begin in the group stage. Portugal will meet Ghana, Uruguay, and South Korea in their Group H fixtures, and qualifying for the Round of 16 would be a real challenge for them.
Read More: 5 players who can win the Golden Boot at Qatar World Cup
Portugal’s World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Jose SA, Rui Patarico
Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, Pepe, Ruben Dias, Danilo Pereira, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes, R. Guerrerio
Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Neves, William, Palhinha, Vitinha, Otavio, Matheus Nunes, Joao Mario
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, Ricardo Horta, Andre Silva, Goncalo Ramos
Aftermath
Having an easier group than Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal offers Lionel Messi's Argentina an early advantage to progress to the Round of 16. As a result, Lionel Messi has a better chance than his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo of winning the FIFA World Cup 2022 while representing Argentina. But Portugal may become even stronger as the tournament progresses since they have to play tougher opponents right away.
Forbes Highest-paid Footballers 2022: Mbappe overtakes Messi, Ronaldo
Football nowadays offers more money thanks to its enormous appeal to top-level professional players in all parts of the world. According to the most recent Forbes list of the highest-paid football players for 2022, one may get an idea of how much a top football player can make. As per the US magazine, the French forward, Kylian Mbappe, has reached the 100 million marks in earnings at only 23 years old.
Who made the top 10 in the 2022 Forbes highest-paid football players list?
Based on salaries, bonuses, and off-field earnings, which include cash from endorsements, licensing, appearances, memorabilia, and businesses operated by the players, were taken into account when Forbes made the list for the highest earners for the 2022-2023 season. PSG’s three superstar footballers, Mbappe, Messi, and Neymar, made the list. Manchester City’s two top earners, Haaland and De Bruyne, also found a place in the top 10 list. Here are the top 10 Forbes highest-paid soccer players 2022.
Read: Cristiano Ronaldo: Portuguese star completes 700 club goals
10. Kevin De Bruyne
Nationality: Belgium | Age: 31 | Current Club: Manchester City | Total Earnings: $29 millions
Apart from being one of the top earners at Manchester City football club in England, Kevin De Bruyne has 11 brand deals. He has $4 million in off-field earnings through his image.
09. Andres Iniesta
Nationality: Spain | Age: 38 | Current Club: Vissel Kobe | Total Earnings: $30 millions
Iniesta left Barcelona in 2018 and has since made a fortune playing for the Japanese club Vissel Kobe. He has $25 million in on-field earnings.
08. Eden Hazard
Nationality: Belgium | Age: 31 | Current Club: Real Madrid | Total Earnings: $31 millions
Hazard has failed to make an impact for Real Madrid because of injury issues. However, that doesn’t affect his overall earnings. Hazard has $27 million in on-field earnings with Los Blancos.
07. Robert Lewandowski
Nationality: Poland | Age: 34 | Current Club: FC Barcelona | Total Earnings: $35 millions
Barcelona’s summer signings Lewandowski has found himself at No.7 with a total of $35 million in earnings. Lewandowski’s $8 million in off-field earnings proves that he has a massive fan following.
06. Erling Haaland
Nationality: Norway | Age: 22 | Current Club: Manchester City | Total Earnings: $39 millions
Manchester City’s goal machine, Erling Haaland, has deservedly earned a place in the top 10 list of highest-paid earners. Man City has given Erling $35 million for his footballing services.
Read: Will Argentina’s 36-year trophy drought end with Messi's final World Cup?
05. Mohamed Salah
Nationality: Egypt | Age: 30 | Current Club: Liverpool | Total Earnings: $53 millions
Mohamed Salah recently signed a new contract with Liverpool and that has made him among the top earners in football. Salah’s overall earnings exceeded $50 million.
04. Neymar Jr.
Nationality: Brazil | Age: 30 | Current Club: PSG | Total Earnings: $87 millions
Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. couldn’t reach the 100 million mark but still pocketed $87 million. He has earned $55 million for his on-field service to PSG.
03. Cristiano Ronaldo
Nationality: Portugal | Age: 37 | Current Club: Manchester United | Total Earnings: $100 millions
The 37-year-old Portuguese star, Cristiano Ronaldo, recently completed his 700 club goals and is still going strong. Ronaldo’s off-field earnings of $60 million have surpassed his earnings with Manchester United.
02. Lionel Messi
Nationality: Argentina | Age: 35 | Current Club: PSG | Total Earnings: $120 millions
Lionel Andres Messi, the Argentine superstar, has a total income of $120 million. Paris Saint-Germain has given $65 million for his magical footballing services on the field.
01. Kylian Mbappe
Nationality: France | Age: 23 | Current Club: PSG | Total Earnings: $128 millions
Paris Saint-Germain managed to sign Kylian Mbappe to a new contract last summer and make him the highest-paid footballer in the world. The French giant has given him more than $100 million for his service as a player.
Read: Qatar World Cup 2022: Viewer's guide
Aftermath
Each year, the renowned American business magazine, Forbes, compiles the list of the highest earners among football players. The highlights of the Forbes Highest-Paid footballers 2022 were Erling Haaland's debut and Kylian Mbappe's position at the top.
Police investigate after Ronaldo knocked phone from fan
Police are investigating an incident that saw Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo apparently slapping a phone out of a supporter’s hand as he left the field after a loss at Everton.
The force in Liverpool is appealing for witnesses after footage was posted on social media following United’s 1-0 Premier League loss on Saturday.
“As players were leaving the pitch at 2:30 p.m., it was reported that a boy was assaulted by one of the away team as they left the pitch," Merseyside Police said Sunday. “Inquiries are under way and officers are currently working with Everton Football Club to review CCTV (video) footage and are carrying out extensive witness enquiries to establish if an offence has taken place."
Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo Officially Becomes Highest Goalscorer in Football History
Ronaldo said it was “never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing.”
In a post on Instagram on Saturday, Ronaldo added: “I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship.”
Also read: Champions League 2021-2022: Will Messi and Ronaldo meet in the Round of 16?
United fell to seventh and six points behind the four Champions League qualification places.
Cristiano Ronaldo Officially Becomes Highest Goalscorer in Football History
Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in a Premier League encounter against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on Saturday (March 12). The match ended in a 3-2 victory for Manchester United, putting them in fourth place with 50 points from 29 Premier League matches. Oppositely, Tottenham have dropped to the seventh position with 45 points from 27 games. Besides, the encounter was significant for Ronaldo, who became the leading goalscorer in FIFA-recognized official matches. Let's look at Ronaldo's performance against Tottenham and the all-time official top scorers in football.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance against Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United were outside the top four in the Premier League points standings prior to the encounter against Tottenham Hotspur. They have had a disappointing season despite spending so much money in the summer transfer window of 2021. On the other hand, Tottenham Hotspur have been under pressure to finish in the top four in the Premier League.
Read Ballon d’Or award undergoes significant changes
Both teams were eager to win in this scenario, but Manchester United had the edge from the outset because they were the hosts. Cristiano Ronaldo was instrumental in Manchester United's win from start to end. He scored the game's first goal in the 12th minute with a spectacular long-range shot that helped him match Bican's overall tally.
Tottenham Hotspur captain Harry Kane scored a penalty in the 35th minute to squander United's advantage. But it only took Cristiano Ronaldo three minutes to give Manchester United a 2-0 lead and surpass Bican's all-time official tally.
In the 72nd minute, Harry Maguire scored an own-goal, bringing Tottenham Hotspur back into the game. However, Ronaldo was on another level on Saturday, when he scored his 59th career hat-trick in the 81st minute to secure United's victory. The entire crowd erupted in applause following his decisive third goal.
Read 2022 UEFA Champions League: Who are Front-Runners to Reach Quarter-Finals?
Highest goal-scorers in FIFA-recognized official games
Josep Bican is thought to have scored around 1500 goals in his professional career. However, Bican has just 805 goals recognized by FIFA. Therefore, when Ronaldo scored his second goal of the game against Tottenham on Saturday, he officially overtook Bican's record to become the all-time leading scorer in football history.
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 807 goals in 1110 games, whereas Josef Bican has scored 805 goals in just 530 games. It highlights Bican's potency as a striker during his playing career. Though football was not as competitive in the 1930s and 1950s as it is now.
Apart from them, Romario of Brazil, Lionel Messi of Argentina, and Brazilian icon Pele of Brazil are third, fourth, and fifth, respectively.
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Top five goal-scorers in official matches
Player
Matches
Goals
Cristiano Ronaldo
1,110
807
Josef Bican
530
805
Romario
994
772
Lionel Messi
961
759
Pele
831
757
Source: https://talksport.com/
Read Ukraine asks FIFA to postpone World Cup playoff vs Scotland
Aftermath
Cristiano Ronaldo has reached new heights after surpassing FIFA's all-time top goalscorer record on Saturday. Ronaldo had to play more than 1,100 matches to attain this milestone, which is an incredible performance. Prior to this, he has set several records, the most notable of which is the top goalscorer in UCL history. Cristiano is still going strong at the age of 37, and he is expected to play professional football for another 2/3 years.
If Ronaldo keeps performing as he did against Tottenham, he will undoubtedly shatter a few more records in the coming years. Besides, this was a critical win for Manchester United, who had been under pressure in their pursuit for a top-four finish before this match. Manchester United has now regained their place in the top four of the Premier League points standings with this victory.
Read Chelsea FC: Roman Abramovich ready to sell the club due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine
Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo: Who made the strongest start with the new clubs?
Following the news that Lionel Messi would be leaving Barcelona after 21 years, all of Europe's big teams contacted his representative to make inquiries about signing him. He ended up signing a three-year contract with PSG. On the other side, Cristiano Ronaldo wanted to leave Juventus for a new challenge after Messi's surprising move to Paris Saint-Germain. He was finally signed by Manchester United in the summer 2021 transfer deadline. Let's take a look at how Messi and Ronaldo have performed so far this season for their respective clubs.
Lionel Messi's Season up to this point for PSG
Lionel Messi picked no. 30 as his PSG jersey number, the same number he wore for FC Barcelona when he made his senior debut in 2004. Messi made his PSG debut on August 29 against Reims in Ligue 1 after an almost three-week wait. He was brought on as a substitute in the second half. Leo made his home debut against Olympic Lyon On September 19, and on September 15, he made his UEFA Champions League debut against Club Brugge.
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Messi had to wait a month for PSG to score his first goal. He scored his debut goal against Manchester City at Parc des Princes on September 28. Messi made his customary run into the opposition half, played a one-two with Kylian Mbappe, and then blasted a superb finish to the top left corner. Lionel Messi has appeared in eight matches and scored three goals as of October 31. Mauricio Pochettino is trying to adjust his formation to get the best out of Messi, who has yet to show his true potential with Paris Saint-Germain.
Cristiano Ronaldo's performance in Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo has been given the iconic number 7 shirt to wear in his second stint at Manchester United. Ronaldo played his first game of the season against Newcastle United on September 11. He scored a brace in his debut match. Cristiano scored a late winner in a vital UEFA Champions League group stage match against Villarreal on September 29. Manchester United won the contest by 2-1. He also came out as a rescue for the Red Devils in their most recent Champions League match against Atalanta. His 83rd-minute header secured a dramatic 3-2 win over Atalanta.
Read Who can replace coach Ronald Koeman at FC Barcelona?
Cristiano Ronaldo has now more focus on scoring goals, that’s why he has become a penalty box forward over the last three seasons. Overall, he has scored 7 goals in 10 appearances for Manchester United thus far. Ronaldo is manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's main striker, and so far he has done a good job as no.9.
Way Forward
The football world was shocked when Lionel Messi signed a contract with PSG in the last summer transfer window. However, his performance for Paris Saint-Germain hasn't been up to the mark so far. The diminutive Argentine has struggled to adjust to the new system, and experts think he will require more time to bond with his new teammates.
Read Man United humiliated: Salah hat trick in 5-0 Liverpool rout
On the other hand, the Portuguese superstar Ronaldo has enjoyed a good start with Manchester United. He has already had an impact on the team. The charismatic forward has aided Manchester United in securing a number of dramatic victories. In that perspective, Cristiano Ronaldo has gotten off to a better start with his new club than Lionel Messi.
Ballon d'Or 2021: Meet the Nominees
The names of the 30 players who have been shortlisted for the Ballon d'Or 2021 award were published on Friday (October 8) by France Football magazine. There was speculation that they might give two awards this year, given the fact that the previous year's ceremony was canceled because of the Covid-19 epidemic. However, France football has only published the names of the nominees for this year's award. All the expected names have been selected for the award. Argentina's Lionel Messi leads the latest poll to win the trophy for the record seventh time. Let's take a look at the 2021 Ballon d'Or nominees.
The Ballon d'Or 2021 Candidates
Here are the players that have been shortlisted for the Ballon d'Or 2021 award by France football. Italy have a maximum of five players, followed by England with four, France, Spain, and Portugal with three, Argentina and Belgium with two, and Norway, Denmark, Algeria, Croatia, Egypt, Uruguay, Poland, and Brazil with one each.
Goalkeepers
Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG & Italy)
Italian goalkeeper Donnarumma is the only goalkeeper in the list. He played a pivotal role in Italy’s EURO 2020 win.
Read: Ballon d'Or 2021: Five favorites to win the coveted award
Defenders
Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea & Spain)
Spanish defender Azpilicueta won the Champions League with English side Chelsea.
Ruben Dias (Manchester City & Portugal)
Defender Ruben Dias was named Premier League’s player of the season 2020-2021.
Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus & Italy)
Bonucci won EURO 2020 with Italy earlier this July.
Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus & Italy)
Juventus and Italian Captain Giorgio Chiellini was the heart of Italy’s defense that won the EURO 2020.
Simon Kjær (AC Milan & Denmark)
Danish defender Simon Kjær had a terrific season with both AC Milan and Denmark.
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Midfielders
Jorginho (Chelsea & Italy)
Playmaker Jorginho won two of the biggest trophies this summer. He helped Chelsea to win the Champions League 2021 and also played an important role for Italy to win UEFA European Championship 2020.
Pedri (Barcelona & Spain)
Barcelona’s young midfielder Pedri had an outstanding season with both club and country.
Luka Modric (Real Madrid & Croatia)
Croatian midfielder Luka Modric played his part with Real Marid and earned a place in the 30-man shortlist for Ballon d'Or 2021 award.
Kevin de Bruyne (Manchester City & Belgium)
Belgium midfielder Kevin was one of the star players for Manchester City last season and won the Premier League with the Citizens.
Phil Foden (Manchester City & England)
Foden is an excellent talent. This attacking midfielder showed his true class with both Manchester City and England in EURO 2020.
N'Golo Kante (Chelsea & France)
Kante was so instrumental in Chelsea’s Champions League triumph last May.
Mason Mount (Chelsea & England)
Mount is a young promising playmaker. He won the Champions League with Chelsea.
Nicolo Barella (Inter Milan & Italy)
Barella won Serie A with Inter Milan and EURO 2020 with Italy's national side.
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United & Portugal)
Bruno was the best performer for Manchester United in the 2020/2021 season.
Read Brazil wins and Argentina draws away in World Cup qualifiers
Forwards
Lionel Messi (PSG & Argentina)
Messi finally won a trophy with the Argentina national side. He won Copa America 2021 and also won Copa del Rey with FC Barcelona.
Neymar (PSG & Brazil)
On an individual level, Neymar had a decent season with PSG.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United & Portugal)
Ronaldo was the top scorer in the 2020-2021 Italian Serie A season. He has been the top performer for Manchester United in the current season.
Kylian Mbappe (PSG & France)
Mbappe played well for both club and country and deservedly earned a place in the top 30 list.
Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich & Poland)
Bayern Munich striker broke several records in the 2020/2021 Bundesliga season.
Erling Haaland( (Borussia Dortmund & Norway)
Haaland was brilliant with Borussia Dortmund last season. He is an excellent finisher.
Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan & Argentina)
Martinez helped Inter Milan to win Serie A for the first time in 10 years. He also played an important role in Argentina’s Copa America 2021 victory.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool & Egypt)
Salah was the top performer for Liverpool in the 2020/2021 season.
Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea & Belgium)
Lukaku inspired Inter Milan to win Serie A last season.
Riyad Mahrez (Manchester City & Algeria)
The Algerian forward won the Premier League with Manchester City.
Harry Kane (Tottenham & England)
Kane was the top scorer in the 2020/2021 Premier League season.
Karim Benzema (Real Madrid & France)
Benzema was the most consistent performer for Real Madrid in the 2020/2021 season. Karim has been playing well for France since making his comeback earlier this year.
Raheem Sterling (Manchester City & England)
Sterling had a stellar tournament with England in EURO 2020. With Manchester City, he also won the Premier League.
Read: Ballon d'Or 2021 Predictions: Lionel Messi in Pole Position to win
Bottom Line
The Chatelet Theatre in Paris will host the Ballon d'Or 2021 award ceremony on November 29. This year, there is no obvious favorite because a notable number of players are deserving of the honor. Therefore, panelists will have to consider a variety of factors before voting for a nominee. Individual performance (goals and assists), as well as silverware, are two important factors to take into account. Even though Lionel Messi is often considered the favorite to win the 2021 edition, Jorginho, Lewandowski, Kante, or Benzema cannot be ruled out.
Court says Ronaldo rape lawsuit in Vegas should be dismissed
A federal magistrate judge in Nevada has sided with Cristiano Ronaldo’s lawyers against a woman who sued for more than the $375,000 in hush money she received in 2010 after saying the international soccer star raped her in Las Vegas.
In a scathing recommendation to the judge hearing the case, Magistrate Judge Daniel Albregts on Wednesday blamed Kathryn Mayorga’s attorney, Leslie Mark Stovall, for inappropriately basing the civil damages lawsuit on leaked and stolen documents shown to be privileged communications between Ronaldo and his lawyers.
“Dismissing Mayorga’s case for the inappropriate conduct of her attorney is a harsh result,” the magistrate wrote in his 23-page report to U.S. District Judge Jennifer Dorsey. “But it is, unfortunately, the only appropriate sanction to ensure the integrity of the judicial process.”
Also read: Will Cristiano Ronaldo be Able to Revive Manchester United's Glory?
“Stovall has acted in bad faith to his client’s — and his profession’s — detriment,” Albregts decided.
Stovall and other attorneys in his office did not immediately respond Thursday to telephone and email messages about Albregt’s report.
A date for Dorsey to take up the recommendation was not immediately set.
Ronaldo’s attorney in Las Vegas, Peter Christiansen, issued a statement calling Ronaldo’s legal team “pleased with the court’s detailed review ... and its willingness to justly apply the law to the facts and recommend dismissal of the civil case against Mr. Ronaldo.”
The Associated Press generally does not name people who say they are victims of sexual assault, but Mayorga gave consent through Stovall and attorney Larissa Drohobyczer to make her name public.
Albregts noted the court did not find that Ronaldo committed a crime and found no evidence his attorneys and representatives “intimidated Mayorga or impeded law enforcement” when Mayorga dropped criminal charges and finalized the $375,000 confidential settlement in August 2010.
Ronaldo, now 36, is one of the most recognizable and highly paid players in sports. He has captained his home country soccer team, Portugal, and plays for the English Premier League club Manchester United. He spent several years playing in Italy for the Turin-based club Juventus.
Also read: Ronaldo reportedly breaks coronavirus rules on 2-day break
Mayorga, 37, is a former teacher and model who lives in the Las Vegas area. She said in her lawsuit filed first in state court and moved to federal court that Ronaldo or his associates violated the confidentiality agreement by allowing reports about it to appear in European publications in 2017. She seeks to collect at least $200,000 more from Ronaldo.
She met Ronaldo at a nightclub in June 2009 and went with him and other people to his hotel suite, where she said he assaulted her in a bedroom, according to the lawsuit. She was 25 at the time. He was 24.
Ronaldo’s attorneys have acknowledged the soccer star and Mayorga had sex, but said it consensual and not rape.
Mayorga went to Las Vegas police, but the investigation was dropped at the time because Mayorga neither identified her alleged attacker by name nor said where the incident took place, Steve Wolfson, the elected prosecutor in Las Vegas, said in 2019.
Wolfson decided not to file criminal charges based on a new investigation by Las Vegas police in 2018 because he said too much time had passed and evidence failed to show that Mayorga’s accusation could be proven at trial beyond a reasonable doubt.
Word of the financial settlement became public after the German news outlet Der Spiegel published an article in 2017 titled “Cristiano Ronaldo’s Secret” based on documents obtained from “whistleblower portal Football Leaks.”
“The article makes it clear that these documents included privileged communications ... between Ronaldo’s European and U.S. attorneys about the settlement,” Albregts wrote.
Stovall “acted in bad faith by asking for, receiving, and using the Football Leaks documents to prosecute Mayorga’s case,” the magistrate judge found.
“Although Stovall never received — or even sought — an ethics opinion ... he had multiple opportunities to recognize the privileged nature of the documents, starting with the 2017 Der Spiegel article, which quotes privileged communications.”
Albregts rejected Stovall’s argument that using the documents was justified because Stovall wasn’t the one who stole them and he couldn’t prove they were stolen.
The attorney’s efforts to make confidential documents public through court filings were “audacious,” “impertinent” and “abusive,” the magistrate said.
Albregts recommended Dorsey also dismiss Stovall’s claim that because Mayorga had learning disabilities as a child and was pressured by Ronaldo’s representatives she lacked the mental capacity to sign the 2010 confidentiality agreement.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco ruled early this year that it would be up to Dorsey to decide that question.
“Mayorga's case against Ronaldo would probably not exist had Stovall not asked for the Football Leaks documents,” Albregts wrote, and Mayorga’s knowledge of the documents’ contents "cannot be undone.”
“There is no possible way for this case to proceed where the court cannot tell what arguments and testimony are based on these privileged documents,” he said.
Cristiano Ronaldo heading back to Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo is headed back to Manchester United.
The English club said Friday it has reached an agreement with Juventus for the transfer of the 36-year-old Portugal forward, subject to agreement of personal terms, visa and a medical examination.
Ronaldo, a five-time world player of the year, told Juventus on Thursday that he no longer wanted to play for the Italian club, coach Massimiliano Allegri said.
United did not disclose a transfer fee for Ronaldo, but it is reported to be 25 million euros ($29.5 million). He had one year left on his contract at Juventus.
Ronaldo played for United from 2003-09 and turned into a superstar under the guidance of then-manager Alex Ferguson.
“Everyone at the club looks forward to welcoming Cristiano back to Manchester,” United said in a brief statement, ending a day of fast-moving developments.
It is the latest blockbuster move of the transfer window, with Lionel Messi — Ronaldo’s long-time rival — having joined Paris Saint-Germain after his contract at Barcelona expired. PSG forward Kylian Mbappe is also the subject of a bid of about 160 million euros ($188 million) from Real Madrid.
Read: Summer Football Transfer 2021: Latest Rumours
Hours before United confirmed Ronaldo’s return to the club where he scored 118 goals in 292 games, current manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Ronaldo “knows that we’re here” if he wanted to join.
“He is the greatest player of all time, if you ask me,” said Solskjaer, a former United striker who played alongside Ronaldo. “Such a tremendous human being as well ... Everyone who’s played with him, I think, has a soft spot for him.”
Ronaldo will leave Juventus after three years. He joined the club from Real Madrid.
“Yesterday, Cristiano told me that he no longer plans to play for Juventus,” Allegri said in a news conference. “Cristiano gave his contribution. He made himself available, now he leaves and life goes on.”
Manchester City had been considering an option to buy Ronaldo after its top target, Harry Kane, said Wednesday he was staying at Tottenham for now. But City manager Pep Guardiola sounded pessimistic about that possibility when speaking at a news conference at about the same time as Solskjaer.
It is not the first time United has beaten City to a player that both clubs wanted. Alexis Sanchez joined United in 2018 after appearing to be close to moving to City, while United was prepared to pay 80 million pounds (then $97 million) to sign Harry Maguire from Leicester in 2019 — a sum City didn’t try to match.
United, which hasn’t won the Premier League since 2013, has also signed England winger Jadon Sancho and France center back Raphael Varane for a combined cost of about $150 million.
Summer Football Transfer 2021: Latest Rumours on Mbappe, Ronaldo, Kane, Lewandowski, Haaland
Football teams in Europe build their squads by buying players during the summer transfer window, which fascinates football fans across the world. Despite the coronavirus epidemic, Europe's top clubs are hoping to add superstar players during the summer transfer window this year. Lionel Messi has already signed a two-year contract with PSG in Ligue 1, and Chelsea have acquired Romelu Lukaku for 115 million euros from Serie A champion (2020/2021) Inter Milan. Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe are all available for a new challenge. Let's look at some of the latest summer football transfer news in 2021.
Transfer Rumours: Potential Transfers Before the Deadline
Kylian Mbappe
PSG signed one of the greatest ever footballers, Lionel Messi earlier this month with the aim of creating a strong attacking line-up in Europe with Neymar, Mbappe, and Messi upfront. However, their wish may not be fulfilled because Mbappe has reportedly declined to extend his current deal with the Paris-Saint Germain.
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According to rumors, he is considering leaving the club for Real Madrid this summer. He has also no worries about finishing his current contract, which will expire at the end of the 2021/2022 season. Real Madrid have officially made a 160 million euro offer to PSG to lure Mbappe to the Santiago Bernabéu.
PSG's Director of Football, Leonardo, has confirmed that he would not be sold for a low price. Various reports claim, any team interested in acquiring Mbappe this season will have to pay 220 million euros. In the coming days, this Mbappe transfer saga may take some unexpected twists.
Cristiano Ronaldo
The agent for Cristiano Ronaldo, Jorge Mendes is now working on a transfer for his client. Ronaldo may be forced to finish his present deal with Juventus if he cannot find a suitable club. Earlier, PSG had expressed interest in luring Cristiano Ronaldo if Mbappe left the club. However, according to recent rumors, Paris Saint-Germain are no longer interested in purchasing him this summer.
Read: Lionel Messi signs 2-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain
So, Cristiano Ronaldo's only feasible alternative would be to join Manchester City. If he departs Juventus for Manchester City, it would be a huge shock to Manchester United supporters.
Ronaldo established himself as a global superstar during his time with the Red Devils from 2003 until 2009. He also won his first Ballon d'or with Manchester United. As per sources, he would cost around 25 million euros, making this spectacular transfer possible.
Erling Haaland
Borussia Dortmund forward Erling Haaland is one of the most talked-about players in Europe right now. Since joining German club 2020, this big forward has been in excellent form. All of Europe's major teams are vying for his signature. However, Borussia Dortmund will not sell him for a low price. This summer, Haaland will cost more than150 million euros.
Chelsea attempted to sign him earlier this month, but Dortmund refused to sell him. In the following season, Erling Haaland would be available at a considerably lower price. So, we may expect him to leave next summer rather than this window. Manchester City, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Manchester United are the favorites to sign him next season.
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Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski has established himself as a legend after spending more than a decade in the Bundesliga. He has set numerous Bundesliga records. He broke Gerd Muller's most goals in a single season in the 2021/2021 season. Lewandowski is eager to leave Bayern Munich in search of a new challenge.
At the age of 33, he can only move to a team that badly need a striker for a limited period of time. For the time being, Manchester City appear to be the best choice for him. PSG might be an alternative if Mbappe leaves for Real Madrid. Because of his age, both Manchester City and PSG can purchase him for a low price. But one thing is certain: he will score a lot of goals wherever he goes.
Harry Kane
Harry Kane was keen to leave Tottenham Hotspur in search of silverware. Because he does not feel Tottenham is capable of winning a trophy. Kane was widely linked with a move to Manchester City.
Man City allegedly offered Spurs 125 million pounds for Kane, but Daniel Levy, the Spurs chairman, turned down the offer. As per reports, they are seeking more than 150 million pounds.Finally, Harry Kane has confirmed that he will not leave Tottenham this summer, and he is allegedly demanding a weekly salary of £400,000 from the club. It will be interesting to see whether Man City make a January transfer window move for Harry Kane.
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Verdict
According to the latest transfer news, some big signings might be completed before the end of the summer transfer window 2021. The window will end at midnight on August 31st, giving teams less than a week to execute their desired deal. As per the latest transfer rumors, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe are the most likely to leave their present clubs for a new challenge. Their transfer will affect the equation in terms of Champions League football. So, the next few days of this transfer window are crucial for all of Europe's big clubs.