Gaizka Mendieta
May 2026
Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta dismissed speculation linking Cristiano Ronaldo with a sensational Real Madrid return following Jose Mourinho’s expected appointment. Mendieta believes the veteran forward remains settled in Saudi Arabia and no longer maintains the consistency required at Madrid. Mourinho’s anticipated return sparked rumours of a reunion with Ronaldo, who played under him between 2010 and 2013. However, Mendieta argued the demands at Real Madrid are too intense, suggesting Ronaldo should remain at Al-Nassr and continue pursuing scoring milestones there.