Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
FERGIE’S PERFECT TIMING
EXCLUSIVE: Late call from father-figure Sir Alex is why Ronaldo rejoined United, says ex-Red Berbatov
SIR ALEX FERGUSON was the deciding factor in Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Manchester United and not joining City – according to the man who has been in his shoes.
Thirteen years ago, Dimitar Berbatov (right) found himself being chased by the city’s two heavyweight clubs himself, as they battled for his services when he left Tottenham for £30million.
But the former Bulgaria striker said that Ferguson’s status as a father figure in the eyes of the 36-year-old Ronaldo – allied to his powers of persuasion – would have sealed the deal.
Berbatov said: “There have been reports that Sir Alex gave him a call and, in my opinion, if that happened it would have been a major factor in his decision.
“Sir Alex is like a father to him – he brought him to the club, he raised him, and it’s where he started his journey to becoming one of the best.
“So their connection is still strong – even though they parted ways a long time ago.
“I think that was probably a big turning point for him – and it’s good to have someone like Sir Alex around when you are faced with such a big decision.
“If he was hesitating then Sir Alex was definitely the man to push him in United’s direction and, sure enough, we saw the result, Ronaldo chose to go to United.”
Berbatov, now a Betfair ambassador, was himself the subject of a frantic deadlineday deal when the two Manchester clubs clashed over signing him from Spurs.
He too believes that it was Ferguson’s presence and influence that were the key factors at the time in persuading him not to yield to a last-ditch approach from Manchester City.
Berbatov added: “It reminded me of my own situation when I left Spurs.
“City were talking with my agent and trying to get me to sign, but my response was clear, ‘I’m going to
United’.
“In fact, my agent actually picked up a call from City, while we were in the car with Sir Alex.
“He was driving, I was in the back seat. My agent said, ‘It’s City calling – and they want you’.
“It was awkward, but I obviously said, ‘No f***ing way, I’m going to United’.
“That’s a true story. It’s shocking and funny at the same time but in the end I chose United because of everything, the history, the players, the badge, it was an easy decision for me.”
Along with Ferguson, Ronaldo was also fielding approaches from fellow Portuguese ace Bruno Fernandes.
The ex-Sporting Lisbon man has breathed fresh life and impetus into the Red Devils’ side and supporters are already licking their lips at the prospect of Ronaldo returning to work
with his international colleague. Berbatov says that the veteran’s arrival will be a boost, not just to Fernandes, but also several other young prospects on the club’s books.
He added: “We are all excited to see Fernandes and Ronaldo play together at United, but there’s also Ronaldo and Pogba, Ronaldo and Greenwood and Ronaldo and Rashford – you have to say it’s very exciting.
“United are shaping up nicely and could have a hell of a side this season.
“But even with Ronaldo, one of the best ever, coming back to the club it will be important that people don’t jump ahead of themselves. Manchester United need to go game by game.
“Of course, they’ll be hoping he’s going to fit straight into the team and lead the way for the young players with his attitude, professionalism and the way he trains and takes care of himself.
“Everyone is going to be excited, everyone is going to start mentioning the Premier League title I’m sure, but it’s still very early in the season so let’s wait and see.”
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