Cristiano Ronaldo backed his old club Real Madrid and former rival Manchester City to return to the peak of their powers, as the two European giants approach the midpoint of what has been a difficult season for both.

Manchester City's recent form has passed "injury-stricken slump" and arrived at "inconceivable crisis", with many in the footballing world expressing their surprise at the winner of the last four Premier Leagues winning just one game in 13 across all competitions.

At the Globe Soccer Awards, footy legend Cristiano Ronaldo made one of the most colourful and imaginative remarks you’ll hear this year, comparing former club Manchester United to a sick fish… or perhaps an unhealthy aquarium?

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola continues to look disappointed and bemused by his side as they drew 1-1 at home with Everton on Boxing Day. City have now won just one of their last 13 games in all competitions and coughed up a great chance to get back to winning ways as Erling Haaland had a second half penalty kick saved.

Pep Guardiola has said Manchester City “definitely have to add players” to their squad in the January transfer window as they look to turn around their alarming drop in form. The Athletic reported in Boxing Day’s Transfer DealSheet that City are expected to be active in January,

You could tell during Manchester City’s 1-all draw with Everton yesterday that this Manchester City squad is in desperate need of new players. There is too big a burden being placed on fatigued and