In what turned out to be an extraordinary transfer window, Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Manchester United - stopping a potential move to the blue half of the city in the process.
When you get the opportunity to sign Ronaldo, you sign Ronaldo. This is exactly what United did. Although it sent fans into ecstasy, what does the return of the iconic forward mean for other players at the club?
Just like Ronaldo, United re-signed Paul Pogba back in 2016.
Even though his second spell at United hasn’t been the smoothest of rides, the Frenchman has started the season in incredible form, becoming the first player in Premier League history to register five assists in the opening two games of the season.
Pogba’s contract expires at the end of the season and, considering how well he's started the new campaign, United will want him to sign a new deal.
But with Ronaldo penning a deal expected to make him United's highest earner, this could prove to be a stumbling block with regards to negotiations between United and Pogba.
The communication between United and Pogba’s agent, Mino Raiola, doesn't appear to be particularly great, and the so-called 'super-agent' may very well use Ronaldo’s wages as an argument as to why Pogba deserves more.
Another interesting case is that of United’s current star man, Bruno Fernandes. The 26-year-old has been one of the best performers in the Premier League since moving to England, despite him being nowhere near the highest-paid player at the club.
Even with a contract that's set to run until 2026, United should be keen to keep the midfielder happy by tying him down to an improved deal.
Fernandes doesn't seem the type to cause controversy over wages and contracts, though he’s entitled to feel his phenomenal efforts deserve a wage that reflects his contribution to the team.
The return of Ronaldo and him being on the biggest pay packet at the club, although unlikely, could possibly ruffle the feathers of players who will arguably be more influential on the pitch at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo's bumper salary could also cause problems for players who appear to be surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.
As Ronaldo will be on the highest wages at United, focus shifts to players like Phil Jones and even Eric Bailly - a player whose injury woes mean he has played nowhere near the number of games expected of someone on his salary.
Ronaldo's return is amazing and will remain that way for a long time but, when the dust settles, United may have to think long and hard about the areas in which they can trim their wage bill. Both of the aforementioned players could soon be on their way out of the club as a result.
Let's enjoy the return of our hero for now, but there could be tough decisions to make down the line.
Do you think Ronaldo's wages will affect United's players? Follow our new United trends writer Anil Kandola and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
