Man City tricked Man United into signing Ronaldo claims Shaun Goater

Former Manchester City striker Shaun Goater claimed that the club tricked Manchester United into signing Cristiano Ronaldo. 

City were reported to be in talks to sign the 37-year-old last summer but he made the sensational return to their local rivals and his former side United instead. 

Initially billed as a blockbuster move for the Red Devils, Ronaldo's first season back has proven to be underwhelming.

The Portugal international has scored 18 goals in 32 games in all competitions so far but United have regressed, failing to win silverware for a fifth consecutive campaign. 

Despite Ralf Rangnick taking charge after the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the Red Devils also look set to miss out on Champions League football for next season. 

There has been speculation on whether Ronaldo will remain in Manchester next season amid rumours of tension in the dressing room. 

And Goater, speaking exclusively to Ladbrokes via Metro, claimed Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford was never going to be a success for the Red Devils.

‘I’ve got to be honest, I never thought Cristiano Ronaldo’s return was going to be a great thing for Manchester United,’ Goater said.

Video: Rangnick explains Ronaldo absence for Man Utd in derby defeat (Mirror)

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