Ronaldo hints at long-term future with United
Staying put
By Chris,
October 26 2008
Cristiano Ronaldo could well stay at Old Trafford beyond the end of the current season after the winger told the Spanish press that he’s pleased to have stayed with United. The Portuguese international made no secret of his desire to join Real Madrid over the summer – but Sir Alex Ferguson wouldn’t do business with the La Liga giants.
It does seem a little strange that Ronaldo is now describing it as "his own decision" to stay at United.
He was, by all accounts, chomping at the bit to move to the Bernabeau over the summer but Fergie dug his heels in and wouldn’t let his 42-goal ace join one of the club’s most prominent European rivals.
Ronaldo’s injury at the start of the season gave fans time to forgive him for a series of outbursts, including the infamous "slave" quote that hit the backpages over the summer.The player has now come out and spoke of his delight to still be playing for the European champions.
"Now I understand I made the best decision," he said, speaking to Spanish sports paper Marca.
"I am with Manchester in body and soul.
"I want to respect the club, my colleagues and the fans and don't want to talk about other teams at present."
The 23-year-old looks to be back to full fitness and already has three goals to his name this season - finding the net against Middlesbrough, Bolton and West Brom - all of which were in front of the Old Trafford faithful.