What Were the Reasons Behind PSG Not Signing Cristiano Ronaldo?
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has played for several top clubs throughout his career, including Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and currently, Juventus. However, one notable absence from his list of clubs is Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Despite rumors and speculations over the years, Ronaldo has never donned the famous PSG jersey. So, what were the reasons behind PSG not signing the Portuguese superstar?
1. Financial Constraints:
One of the primary reasons behind PSG not signing Cristiano Ronaldo is the financial burden it would entail. Ronaldo is not only one of the best players in the world but also one of the highest-paid athletes. His massive salary demands, coupled with transfer fees, would put a significant strain on PSG’s finances. Although PSG has been backed by Qatari owners with deep pockets, the club must still adhere to financial fair play regulations, which limit excessive spending to maintain a sustainable financial structure.
2. Existing Star Players:
Another reason PSG might have been hesitant to sign Ronaldo is their already star-studded squad. With players like Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, PSG already possesses an immense attacking force. Introducing Ronaldo into the mix would potentially create issues in terms of team dynamics, playing time, and egos. Balancing the presence of multiple superstars within a team can often be a challenging task.
3. Age and Long-Term Planning:
Ronaldo, despite his remarkable physical condition and consistent performances, is now in the twilight years of his career. At the time of this writing, he is 36 years old. PSG, like any other top club, must consider long-term planning when making significant investments. Opting for a player in his mid-30s might not align with PSG’s vision of building a team for the future. Additionally, PSG could be wary of potential decline in Ronaldo’s performance and the associated risks of a major investment.
4. Branding and Commercial Considerations:
PSG has a strong brand presence and a significant commercial reach. The club has built successful partnerships with sponsors and other organizations globally. While Ronaldo’s addition would undeniably enhance PSG’s commercial appeal, there might be concerns about the impact on branding and commercial partnerships. PSG already has marketable star players, and adding Ronaldo could create competition for endorsements, sponsorships, and other commercial opportunities.
5. Ronaldo’s Previous Rivalry with Barcelona:
Ronaldo’s time at Real Madrid saw an intense rivalry with Barcelona, particularly with Lionel Messi. PSG, being a club with strong ties to Barcelona, might have been hesitant to bring in Ronaldo due to potential unrest among supporters or an imbalance in the club’s allegiances.
While these reasons help shed light on why PSG did not pursue Cristiano Ronaldo, it is important to note that football transfers are complex negotiations with various factors at play. Ultimately, PSG’s decision not to sign Ronaldo may have been influenced by a combination of these reasons, along with their own strategic considerations, financial constraints, and long-term objectives.
