Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to leave Real Madrid for Juventus over the summer stunned Bryan Robson, with the Manchester United legend expecting the Portuguese to retire at the Santiago Bernabeu or Old Trafford.
A return to English football could still be made by the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, but he is now 33 years of age and tied to a four-year contract in Turin.
Such a switch now appears unlikely, with Ronaldo expected to head for America or Asia if another challenge is taken on before heading into retirement.
Robson admits he had been hoping to see a former favourite back at the Theatre of Dreams, with it surprising to discover that Jose Mourinho was not in the market for an all-time great once the exit doors were opened in Spain.