Cristiano Ronaldo believes Manchester City could win the Champions League again – but he does not want them to.

The Al Nassr star recently made headlines after insisting he was still the best after outscoring Erling Haaland last season.

City’s main man up front netted 50 in all competitions last campaign while Ronaldo scored 54 for his Saudi club.

But when asked if Haaland and co could retain the Champions League last season, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s Manchester United past came to light.

He said: “I think Manchester City has a great chance of winning the Champions League again this season.

“I hope not, but I think they have a chance. Favourites? Man City, Real Madrid, Bayern [Munich].”

Ronaldo played for United across two spells – the first from 2003 to 2009 and the second from 2021 to 2022.

While in his first stint, the Portugal international won his first Ballon d’Or and the first of five Champions League titles in 2008.

But the forward’s second spell did not end nearly as successfully after his contract ripped up following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan where he languished Erik ten Hag and the club.

Just a year before, United had swooped in on a dramatic end to the 2021 summer transfer window when it looked like City were ready to make him a shock signing.

An intervention from Sir Alex Ferguson, Rio Ferdinand and several other United legends persuaded the then-Juventus star to snub Pep Guardiola’s side and return to Old Trafford.

City went on to sign Haaland the following year instead, who led them to the treble with a plethora of goals.

Ronaldo added: “Manchester City did amazing. Congratulations on their season. Players, coach. Superb.

“Finally they win the Champions League, they probably deserved it two years ago. I enjoy seeing them play.”

Ronaldo blazed the trail for big-name superstars to play in Saudi Arabia after joining Al Nassr.

Since his transfer, players such as Neymar, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez have made the switch as well.