With a 3-2 triumph over Tottenham on Saturday evening, the 37-year-old netted his 59th career hat-trick to assist United return to the top four.
Ronaldo’s suitability in United’s team has been questioned in recent months, and there are also suspicions that he may not fit into the style of play of whoever replaces Sir Alex Ferguson in the summer.
The former Real Madrid striker is under contract until the end of next season, but Neville believes his former teammate has all the cards when it comes to deciding whether or not he will be at Old Trafford next season.
‘At the end of the season, there’s this looming decision,’ Neville told Sky Sports.
‘Do you think Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Manchester United at the conclusion of the season? Is he going to stay at Manchester United?
‘It’s not in their hands; Ronaldo made that decision; he still has a year remaining on his contract; the question is whether he wants to stay here.’ Whether it’s the ‘project,’ as some players like to call it, that he supports and enjoys.
‘His magnificence and desire for a pleasurable career; he’s demanding, he’s demanding, he wants to win every game.’ Obviously, there are some things he can’t do, and I’ve helped with that in this studio.
‘He’s probably not your man if Manchester United want to be a high-pressing club, but it’s his decision if he stays at Manchester United, not the other way around.’
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Mauricio Pochettino of PSG and Erik ten Hag of Ajax are among the frontrunners to take over as permanent manager of the Red Devils in the summer.
Roy Keane has made it obvious to whoever succeeds him that he wants a team built around the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
‘Games like tonight will help him make better decisions,’ Keane said. ‘As good as he is, the next challenge is to get this Manchester United team to fight for league titles again; however, that is a different story when it comes to the next management and recruitment.
‘However, Ronaldo has a significant role to play in this and will contribute to the club’s restoration.’
‘You need Ronaldo in your team; he’s putting up incredible numbers.’ Is Cristiano Ronaldo at his best this season?
‘Probably not; he’s missed a few chances, but you have a better chance of winning football matches with Ronaldo on your squad.’
