Revealed: Why Cristiano Ronaldo was rejected by Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund as ex-Man Utd star asked for Europe stay ahead of Al-Nassr move

After seeing his Manchester United contract terminated following a dispute with the club, Ronaldo dreamed of continuing his career in Europe and approached both Bayern and Dortmund in 2022. According to Christian Falk’s book Transfer Insider, published by Bild, Mendes actively pitched the Portuguese star to Bayern chiefs, preparing a special dossier that highlighted the marketing, merchandising and global reach CR7 would bring. Oliver Kahn, Bayern CEO at the time, later admitted the discussions took place, while BVB also received the same pitch. Both German clubs, however, decided against making a move despite Ronaldo’s availability.

The 40-year-old's pursuit of a European stay coincided with a turbulent spell at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag. The Bavarians seriously considered signing him, but concerns quickly emerged as club chiefs feared the Portuguese forward’s superstar status could have a negative effect on the dressing room and damage the wage hierarchy. Robert Lewandowski was Bayern’s top earner on €24 million (£20m/$26m) a year, while the ex-Real Madrid star was pocketing around €29m (£24m/$32m) at United and reportedly wanted a similar figure. 

Dortmund reached the same conclusion, deciding that the commercial boost Mendes promised was outweighed by the sporting and financial risks. The stance from both clubs underlined how Europe’s elite were unwilling to compromise team spirit and long-term balance for short-term global headlines.

Mendes reportedly told Bayern: "It would be a dream for Ronaldo to continue his career at FC Bayern.” Despite this, Kahn and ex-sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic concluded that Ronaldo simply didn’t fit Bayern’s philosophy. 

"We came to the conclusion that, despite all the appreciation we all have, he wouldn't have fit in with our philosophy in the current situation." Dortmund, meanwhile, rejected Mendes’ projections outright, dismissing his claims of financial upside.

With no European offers materialising, Ronaldo’s United chapter ended abruptly in November 2022 after his falling out with Ten Hag. Following the World Cup in Qatar, he joined Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr, where he remains under contract and continues to play at the age of 40.

Additional reporting by Jonas Rutten.