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How Sir Alex Ferguson BLOCKED Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man City transfer in just 20 seconds before sparking Man Utd return


SIR ALEX FERGUSON puts the breaks on Cristiano Ronaldo’s move Manchester United’s rivals Man City with a short but effective phone call.

Ronaldo was unhappy at Juventus and tried to engineer a move away from the Turin-based club towards the back end of the summer transfer window.

Three words is all it took Ferguson to put Ronaldo off a move to CityCredit: GETTY IMAGES
Ronaldo sees Ferguson as a father figureCredit: GETTY IMAGES

And Man City were one of the clubs believed to be closing in on the 36-year-old’s signature, until former boss and father figure Ferguson rang him up.

According to Star Sport, Ferguson rang Ronaldo and said: “Don’t join City.”

Ferguson then hung up the phone and a few days later the Red Devils raced into pole position and sealed a fairytale return.

The legendary boss confirmed his role in the transfer ahead of Ronaldo’s second United debut against Newcastle earlier this season.

He told Viaplay: “I’m excited like everyone else, there was anticipation all day yesterday and waking up in the morning.

“I speak for all supporters, it’s a great day for Manchester United.

Ferguson signed then teenager Ronaldo from Sporting Lisbon for just over £12m back in 2003Credit: GETTY IMAGES
Cristiano Ronaldo has hit the ground running since rejoining Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty

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“A lot of people played their part [in bringing Ronaldo back] and I contributed knowing that really Cristiano wanted to come here and that was important. It worked very well.

“I wouldn’t say it’s emotional but it’s exciting for me and a relief because I couldn’t imagine him playing for Man City, I don’t think anyone could.

“That’s why we took steps to make sure he came here and the club then followed in very well and I spoke to the Glazers and it was done.”

Ronaldo went on to bag a brace in the game in front of the Old Trafford faithful, and he’s found the back of the net seven times since.

The pair have an incredibly strong bond.

Ronaldo dedicated his United return transfer to Ferguson.

The Portuguese superstar took to Instagram after his £12.8million move was confirmed and said: “Sir Alex, this one is for you…”

⚽ Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford

Pep Guardiola hails Ronaldo as ‘one of the greatest’


Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk


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