SIR ALEX, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU
STOREY’S STUNNING 16TH GOLD JUST SO SWEET BAMFORD: IT WAS RIGHT TO WAIT FOR ENGLAND CALL RONALDO’S WARM WORDS FOR FERGUSON AFTER COMPLETING A ‘DREAM’ RETURN TO UNITED
CRISTIANO RONALDO completed an emotional return to Manchester United yesterday, dedicating the move to the club’s legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Ronaldo, who has signed a twoyear contract at Old Trafford, first emerged as a global star during six years under Ferguson before joining Real Madrid in 2009.
The 36-year-old had been expected to join Manchester neighbours City from Juventus before United’s swoop was announced last Friday.
Ronaldo, who is currently on international duty with Portugal, wrote on Instagram: ‘I can’t even start to explain my feelings right now, as I see my return to Old Trafford announced worldwide.
‘It’s like a dream come true, after all the times that I went back to play against
Man United, and even as an opponent, to have always felt such love and respect from the supporters. This is absolutely 100 per cent the stuff that dreams are made of!
I’m right here! I’m back where I belong!
‘Let’s make it happen once again! PS – Sir Alex, this one is for you...’ The five time Ballon d’Or winner, whose deal has the option of a third year, scored 118 goals in six seasons for United between 2003 and 2009, winning three Premier League titles and the Champions League once. Reds manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, a former team-mate of the star, said: ‘ You run out of words to describe Cristiano.
‘He is not only a marvellous player, but also a great human being. To have the desire and the ability to play at the top level for such a long period requires a very special person. ‘Ronaldo’s return demonstrates the unique appeal of this club.’
His arrival led to Daniel James moving to Leeds for £25m, two-and-ahalf-years after their bid to sign the Wales winger from Swansea collapsed at the 11th hour.