List of top Ballon d’Or 2023 nominees: Manchester United failed miserably, looking back at 2022, who will still dare to criticize Ronaldo

Despite facing criticism, Cristiano Ronaldo has proven himself to be a crucial player for Manchester United. His return to the club in the summer of 2021 was met with high expectations from fans and experts alike. Ronaldo’s remarkable career with previous clubs, including Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, brought immense success. However, upon his return to Manchester United, he found himself at the receiving end of blame for the team’s failures. Despite this, he continued to showcase his importance and was nominated for the Ballon d’Or in 2022, alongside the newly joined goalkeeper, André Onana.

Ronaldo’s presence in the Manchester United squad undeniably carries great weight. However, it is unfair to attribute every setback of the team solely to him. Football is a team sport, and the success or failure of a team depends on various factors. A single player, no matter how talented and experienced, cannot guarantee immediate success. The team requires dedication, cohesion, and a solid winning strategy as a whole.

Despite the criticism, Cristiano Ronaldo has continued to prove why he is one of the world’s greatest players. His nomination for the Ballon d’Or in 2022, the most prestigious individual award a player can achieve, is a testament to his contributions and achievements during that season. It demonstrates recognition for Ronaldo’s impact, even amidst the criticism. Regardless of the scrutiny, he maintains focus and exhibits exceptional goal-scoring abilities, continuing to demonstrate why he is one of the greatest players of all time.

In 2023, only one Manchester United player made the Ballon d’Or shortlist, and that player is goalkeeper André Onana. Onana recently transferred from Inter Milan to Manchester United during the summer transfer window of 2023. Despite being a new addition to the team, Onana quickly showcased his talent and helped bolster Manchester United’s defense. His inclusion in the shortlist is a recognition of his abilities and performances in his new club’s colors.

In conclusion, while Cristiano Ronaldo has faced criticism as the supposed cause of Manchester United’s failures, it is essential to recognize the multifaceted nature of team dynamics in football. Ronaldo’s contributions and individual accolades, such as the Ballon d’Or nomination, highlight his importance and impact within the team. Additionally, the inclusion of André Onana in the Ballon d’Or shortlist underscores the talent and potential he brings to Manchester United, despite his recent transfer. Both Ronaldo and Onana represent valuable assets for the team, and their individual successes contribute to the overall progress and aspirations of Manchester United.