The forward department of the senior squad at Bayern Munich has been strengthened by the signing of Sadio Mane from Liverpool. The Senegalese forward arrived in Munich this week to complete one of the most high-profile transfers of the summer. Along with signing one of the best wide players in the world, Bayern has also rejected the chance of signing one of the biggest names in football.
Earlier this week, a report from Spain suggested that Bayern Munich could well consider a move for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United to replace Robert Lewandowski. The reports in Germany quickly dismissed this suggestion and ruled out the chance of seeing Ronaldo in Bavarian colours.
According to Sport1, Ronaldo was indeed offered to Bayern by Jorge Mendes. However, Die Roten decided to reject this chance. Bayern’s Sporting Director Hasan Salihamidzic also quickly poured cold water on this transfer while praising the quality of Ronaldo.
Sky Sports in Germany revealed a list of reasons for Bayern to decide against making a move for Ronaldo. The wage demands and age of the player were at the top of the list. Ronaldo is still scoring a lot of goals at the age of 37, but he is a short-term signing that will not suit Die Roten.
Reasons Bayern decided against signing Cristiano Ronaldo:
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) June 24, 2022
• Keeping a healthy wage structure within the team (CR7 earns ~ €30m net)
• Age: 37 years old
• Bayern want pressing players/willing to run
• Young coach - healthy dressing room relations
[@SkySportDE] pic.twitter.com/aA2hXl6MNM
Ronaldo is also one of the biggest earners in the game. His arrival will disrupt the wage structure at Bayern, which can eventually lead to disruption in the dressing room. The Portuguese superstar’s short-term deal could have long-term effects on Die Roten’s wage structure.
Moreover, the former Real Madrid striker will also not fit in the profile of striker Bayern would like to have in the squad. He is one of the poorest players in Europe when it comes to contributing by pressing from the front.
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Die Roten is currently in danger of losing their talisman in the final third of the pitch. Robert Lewandowski is pushing for a transfer to FC Barcelona. The Spanish club has made a second bid for the Polish striker that is more than likely to be rejected by the German club.
In order to replace Lewandowski, Bayern should consider looking for a young forward. They have made the best possible decision by passing up the opportunity to sign Ronaldo. The coming weeks will give them clarity regarding the future of Lewandowski. If the Polish striker ends up leaving Bavaria, Bayern is expected to be active in the market for a young number nine.