Will Ronaldo get a medal if Manchester Unitedwin the Europa League? Some have asked as the Red Devils take on Barcelona.
The Portugal international left Old Trafford in November following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan, in which he criticised Erik ten Hag and took aim at the way Manchester United are run by the Glazers.
Ronaldo saw his contract terminated as a result of the comments, although given the fact he made six appearances in Group E for the Red Devils before leaving, some have wondered if he would be eligible to receive a winner’s medal.
So, would Ronaldo get a medal? Let’s take a look…
Will Ronaldo get a medal if Manchester United win the Europa League?
Well, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored two goals and also provided two assists for Manchester United in his six Europa League appearances before leaving.
As a result, Ronaldo would probably expect to receive a medal, and he is eligible to receive one.
However, it will be up to Manchester United.
As per rule 11.03 on UEFA’s official website, whoever wins a UEFA competition will receive 40 medals to hand out amongst the playing and coaching staff – additional medals will not be produced.
Crucially – unlike other competitions – UEFA do not set an appearance limit in regards to medals.
Therefore, Manchester United can choose to send one to Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, although it remains to be seen if Ten Hag would approve that, given the messy nature in which things ended between the pair.
Has Ronaldo ever won the Europa League?
Interestingly, if Manchester United do win the Europa League and choose to send Ronaldo a medal, it would be the first Europa League winner’s medal he receives in his illustrious career.
Of course, that is mainly due to the fact the 38-year-old has mostly played in the Champions League, amassing a remarkable 183 appearances in Europe’s leading club competition.
Nevertheless, a winner like Ronaldo would surely not say no to adding another medal to his phenomenal haul, so if Manchester United do end up winning the Europa League, we presume he’ll be straight on the phone to Ten Hag.
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