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      Liverpool missed out on Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo just a week before transfer after ‘fee trebled’ overnight

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      LIVERPOOL failed to sign Cristiano Ronaldo only a week before he joined Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson gazumped his rivals, according to Phil Thompson.The then-Reds assistant boss has revealed that his team were one of many English clubs interested in the Portuguese forward.
      Ronaldo went on to become a mega star at Old TraffordCredit: PA:Press Association
      Ronaldo had already declared that a move to Anfield was “a dream” with agents Paul Stretford, Jorge Mendes and Tony Henry negotiating his exit from Sporting CP.
      In recalling the 2003 transfer to The Athletic, Thompson states that a £4million fee was required.
      He noted: “I asked what kind of salary he would want and they said it was £1 million per year after tax. That was a lot for an 18-year-old kid but they said that was negotiable.
      “It was a Sunday and I explained to them that I needed to go back to Liverpool and speak to Gerard Houllier and see what we could do. I fed all the information back to Gerard, who said he would speak to [chief executive] Rick Parry.
      “Lo and behold, the following week I’m at Melwood when the yellow ticker on Sky Sports News says: Manchester United sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Sporting for £12.2m.
      “I couldn’t believe my eyes.”
      As Thompson says, United had not paid the £4m fee earlier touted and he was left shocked at how the figure changed overnight.
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      The former defender continued: “Tony told me that when he’d got off the plane on the Monday he had got a call to say he was off the deal. It was down to Stretford and Mendes instead.
      “It was astonishing that the fee trebled.
      “He was clearly a big talent but no one could have predicted back then how great he was going to be.”
      Ronaldo went on to win a treble of Premier League titles in Manchester with 118 goals in almost 300 appearances in his first spell with the club.
      Cristiano Ronaldo posts video celebrating reaching record 200m Instagram followers More

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      in Soccer

      Ronaldinho reveals why he chose Barcelona over Manchester United and how close he really got to Blackburn

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      RONALDINHO came incredibly close to signing for Manchester United – but eventually snubbed them in favour of Barcelona.The Brazilian is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of the last two decades after a stunning career in the game.
      Ronaldinho has revealed just how close he came to joining Manchester United instead of BarcelonaCredit: AP:Associated Press
      And he admitted in 2018 that he was all set to become a United player as he approached the peak of his career, only to pull out at the last minute when Barca came calling.
      Ronaldinho had become one of the hottest properties in world football in two dazzling years proving himself in Europe with Paris Saint-Germain.
      And Sir Alex Ferguson looked to have won the race for his services in 2003 when a fee and personal terms had been agreed to take the winger to Old Trafford.
      But that move collapsed at the last minute when elections at Barcelona saw Sandro Rosell become the club’s president.
      Ronaldinho opted to make the move to the Nou Camp instead of Old Trafford in 2003Credit: AP:Associated Press
      United just missed out on signing one of the greatest footballers in the history of the gameCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Speaking to FourFourTwo three years ago, Ronaldinho said: “It almost happened with United.
      “It was a matter of 48 hours, but Sandro Rosell had told me way before I got the offer: ‘If I become Barca president, will you come?’ I said yes.

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      “It was only a matter of details with United when Rosell called to say he was going to win the elections there.
      “And I had promised to him that I’d play for Barça… It was a quick negotiation.
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      “I told the English I had chosen Barca. It was the right choice.
      “Brazilians have always loved Barca. We have a history there. Off the pitch it is like nowhere else in Europe, so we are always happy playing there.”
      Ronaldinho’s late change of heart meant Ferguson just missed out on the chance to unleash what could have been one of the most destructive attacking forces in Europe on the game.
      For the same summer he forked out £12million to sign promising youngster Cristiano Ronaldo from Sporting, who then went on to become a footballing great.
      When Ronaldinho left AC Milan he had the chance to join Blackburn, but decided on a return to BrazilCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Ronaldinho, now 41, also had another chance to move to the Premier League when he left AC Milan in 2011 as Blackburn made a bid for his services.
      But despite holding talks about a move to Ewood Park, he opted to make a return to Brazil to join Flamengo.
      He added: “About Blackburn: we talked to them, but I wanted to come back home to Brazil.”
      Take a look back at the stunning career of Brazilian legend Ronaldinho as he announces his retirement More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo ‘not at Man Utd to fight for sixth’ but backs Ralf Rangnick to turn it around in explosive interview

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO says he knows Manchester United’s problem — but will not reveal what it is.Ronaldo is frustrated at how his return to the club has gone, with question marks over whether he should have ever have come back at all.
      Cristiano Ronaldo told Man Utd’s young stars ‘if you don’t want my advice, sort things out yourself’Credit: EPA
      Manchester United boss Ralf RangnickCredit: EPA
      But he said: “We are capable to change things now.
      “I do not know the specific way because I am a player, not a coach or the president.
      “I know the way but I’m not going to mention it because it is not ethical from my part to say that.”
      There are already those who wonder whether Ronaldo will stay at the club beyond this season.
      He admits he does not want to be at a club not competing for  top honours.
      He said: “Manchester United belongs in important things so we have to change.
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      “I do not want to be here in a club to fight for sixth place or seventh place or fifth.
      “I am here to try to win, to compete. I think we compete but we are not yet in our best level.
      “But we have a long way to improve and I believe that if we change our mind we can achieve big things.”
      Ronaldo refuses to blame new coach Ralf Rangnick for the club’s current performances and instead questions whether the players have the right mentality.
      And in an interview with Sky Sports he said some things needed to be ‘destroyed’ at the club to move it forward.
      He said: “We have to have the right mentality.
      “You have to be ready when you struggle in a game. They call this club Manchester United so we have to be united.
      I do not want to be here in a club to fight for sixth place or seventh place or fifth. Cristiano Ronaldo
      “The system is only useful if you have the right mentality on the pitch.
      “We have a long way to improve. For me the most important thing is to look at yourself and say that you can do it better.
      “I do not accept that our mentality is less than to be in the top three in the Premier League.
      “I think to build up good things you need to destroy some things.
      “I still believe we are capable of having a good season. We know it’s going to take time to make the ideas of the new coach on the pitch.
      “It’s not that fast but we have to be professional, work hard, to be together as players.”
      Rangnick has lost just one of his seven games in charge  and Ronaldo believes he needs more time before being judged.
      The Portugal star said: “He’s changed many things but he needs time to put his ideas through the players and on the pitch.
      “We know it’s going to take time. It’s not  easy to change the mentality of players and the system and the culture just like that, so I believe he’s going to do a good job.
      “I still believe we are capable of having a good season.”
      Manager Ralf Rangnick and Cristiano RonaldoCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd wonderkid Anthony Elanga idolises Thierry Henry, has already scored his first senior goal and signed bumper deal

      by

      BRILLIANT Anthony Elanga is well on his way to becoming Manchester United’s next youth success story.The Swedish winger, 19, has been tipped to join a Championship side on loan in the January transfer window, with first team experience the goal.
      Anthony Elanga, 19, scored his first senior Man Utd goal against WolvesCredit: Paul Marriott – The Sun
      The Swedish winger scored a bullet header any target man would be proud ofCredit: Getty
      Of course, Red Devils fans will already know about his prowess from last season.
      The flying youngster scored his first senior goal for United with a bullet header against Wolves on the final day of the campaign.
      The youth star has impressed for the Under-23’s again this season, but has found game-time limited.
      However, some fans are calling for him to start ahead of England international Marcus Rashford.
      Elanga made his senior debut against LeicesterCredit: AP
      Elanga has four goals in eight games for the Under-23s this seasonCredit: Getty
      Football is something that is very much in his blood.
      His dad Joseph Elanga was a professional footballer, who earned 17 caps for Cameroon and was called up to the 1998 World Cup squad.
      Anthony was previously handed the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award, which has been won by first-teamers Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood in the past.
      While back in March, Elanga was rewarded for his rapid progress with a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.
      Anthony Elanga is the latest promising talent coming through the Man Utd ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      19-year-old forward and Swedish youth star Elanga won the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award last seasonCredit: Sportsfile
      KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
      Anthony’s father Joseph could say he taught him everything he knew.
      But the elder Elanga, now 42, wasn’t a forward like his son. He was a defender, who made a career for himself in Europe – in countries including Greece, Sweden and Denmark, before retiring in 2012.
      His best years were with Malmo from 2000-2005, who he won the Swedish championship with in 2004. He would join the club for one season again in 2010 and win a second league title.
      Joseph was a member of the Cameroon 1998 World Cup squad, but didn’t play a game.
      During his career, however, he did manage to gain 17 caps for his country.
      Joseph Elanga played in Europe for clubs including Malmo and Brondby (pictured here)Credit: Getty
      Elanga Sr played 17 times for Cameroon and was picked for their 1998 World Cup squadCredit: Alamy
      A THREAT UPFRONT
      United’s youth sides are blessed with promising forwards, with the likes of Shola Shoretire, Charlie McNeill and Dillon Hoogewerf all showing they have a bright future in the game.
      Like them, Elanga has the ability to play out wide or though the middle as a No9.
      Predominantly right-footed, he uses his pace and skill to beat his man, often cutting in before unleashing a shot on goal.
      His solo runs are reminiscent of a young Ryan Giggs, who could take three or four players out of a game in one swashbuckling gallop.
      Elanga has been with the Red Devils since the U12s, joining the academy from Sunday League side Hattersley FC.
      In 2019-20, after a prolific season with the U18 side with who he scored seven times in nine games, he was the recipient of the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award
      In March Elanga signed a long-term deal with the Red DevilsCredit: Getty
      Elanga has an eye for goal and was previously named Utd academy player of the yearCredit: Getty
      Predominantly right-footed, Elanga likes to drift to the left and cut in towards goalCredit: Getty

      HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE
      Elanga – who scored two goals in five matches for Sweden’s U17s – had excited Solskjaer in training before his first-team debut.
      “He’s got an X factor, some attributes, it’s not like a gift, but he’s got the acceleration, pace, speed, that’s a given for wingers and he’s got qualities I like,” the Norwegian explained.
      “He’s a goalscoring winger, he’s confident, he likes to beat men, right foot, left foot, he’s got a great attitude.”

      Humble Elanga understands he has to work hard to achieve regular first team footballCredit: Instagram anthonyelanga
      Elanga can see a pathway to the United first team after seeing the likes of Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood flourishCredit: Getty
      Elanga is equally as positive for his future, and knows what he has to do to impress his boss.
      Back in November he told PA, “You look at the likes of Mason and Rashy, there is a pathway there.
      “It just shows you that if you’re willing to put the work into it and continue to work hard day in, day out in training there’s a pathway for you there.”
      HEROES IN THE GAME
      In an interview with The Athletic last year, Elanga revealed who he models his game on.
      “Thierry Henry was my idol and I tried to match my game with his,” he said.
      “He was quick. He could play anywhere across the front three – striker, left wing, right wing – and that’s how I want to replicate my game.”
      Solskjaer said Elanga has an X-Factor about him and a promising futureCredit: Getty
      Elanga idolises Thierry Henry and tries to copy his hero’s gameCredit: Getty
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      Manchester United legend Gary Neville caught a glimpse of Elanga in full flight, when he co-commentated on United Under-21s 6-0 win over Salford City in the EFL Trophy last year.
      He said the youngster was a “nightmare to play against” and called his goal “Thierry Henry-esque.”
      If he’s half the player Henry was, United have got themselves a real talent.
      Solskjaer says Man Utd striker Marcus Rashford in doubt for Granada match More

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      Man Utd fans rejoice as manager Ralf Rangnick ditches 4-2-2-2 formation for Aston Villa FA Cup tie

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED fans rejoiced as Ralf Rangnick reverted back to their usual 4-2-3-1 formation. The German has insisted on using a 4-2-2-2 setup since taking temporary charge in November.
      Man Utd line up against Aston VillaCredit: BBC
      United had used two holding midfielders, with Bruno Fernandes often in a No10 role, two wingers and one central striker.
      But in recent matches Rangnick introduced pairings in midfield, out wide and up front.
      United were fortunate on many occasions to avoid defeat before finally being exposed by Wolves in a 1-0 home loss.
      That defeat seemed to spark a change of mind for Rangnick, who deployed a 4-2-3-1 against Villa.
      And it had instant success as Scott McTominay headed what turned out to be United’s winner in th eighth minute.
      Before the game, Rangnick opened up about the change in formation and why he introduced it in the first place.

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      He said: “Before I arrived it was obvious the team conceded too many goals.
      “The first approach was to make sure we stopped conceding as many and we have achieved that.
      “But at the same time it is all about creating chances, dominating the game when we have the ball and this is where we haven’t improved as yet.
      “The only way you can dominate and control games in the Premier League is by being proactive.
      “As soon as we begin to look passive, like we did against Wolves, we are struggling.
      “The formation is a means to an end, a tool. The formation has to fit to the players you have available.
      “In the long run it would be better to have one system and one style.”
      In the first instance it is about winning games. It did not work overnight with other clubs. It’s about small steps, but at least it has to be steps forward.Ralf Rangnick
      Rangnick added: “It took Jurgen Klopp a few months to get his Liverpool side playing the way he wanted.
      “When Thomas Tuchel arrived at Chelsea, he played with a back three.
      “Pep Guardiola has selected his whole squad over five years to fit this possession-based football.
      “For me, my job now is to work with the players I have available who I have inherited here.
      “In the first instance it is about winning games. It did not work overnight with other clubs.
      “It’s about small steps, but at least it has to be steps forward.”
      Man Utd appear to playing with two wide men against Aston VillaCredit: BBC More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo misses Man Utd’s FA Cup tie against Aston Villa with hip injury, reveals manager Ralf Rangnick

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO missed Manchester United’s FA Cup tie against Aston Villa with a hip injury.The forward was left out of the squad completely against Steven Gerrard’s Villa.
      Ralf Rangnick and Cristiano RonaldoCredit: PA
      And manager Ralf Rangnick confirmed Ronaldo has suffered a knock and was not risked for the cup clash.
      He said: “I spoke with Cristiano yesterday before training, he told me that he had some problems for the last couple of days, some minor problems.
      “In the end we decided to not take any risks in a cup game that could easily last 120 minutes.”
      He added: “I suppose he will be in the stadium but he had some problems with his hip, with his hip muscle, and we just decided that it would be better for him not to play this game.
      “I don’t think it’s anything serious.”
      Ronaldo, 36, played the full 90 minutes in United’s recent 1-0 loss at home to Wolves.
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      And not even the Portugal legend could turn things around as his side laboured to a shock loss.
      But one man who came out of the defeat with praise was Phil Jones – having started his first United game in TWO YEARS.
      The returning defender, 29, has however been sidelined with another injury.
      While Jadon Sancho was another late absentee.
      Rangnick said: “With Phil Jones he is having some minor problems on the calf.
      “Again, in a cup game like the one tonight, it doesn’t make any sense even more so if it’s the calf muscle.
      “With Jadon he was supposed to be in the squa, he had some issues with both hamstrings on both sides so again it doesn’t make sense to take any risks.”
      The German manager replaced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in November, and was beaten for the first time in charge against Wolves.
      And in the pre-match programme notes, caretaker boss Rangnick admitted performances must improve.
      He said: “When I took this role as Manchester United interim manager, I knew there would be a lot of work to do.
      “It’s not possible to just walk into a new club midway through the season, say a few words and everything is instantly straightforward.
      “We have a lot of players who are top quality individuals with so much talent but we need to work together in order to make progress.”
      Current caretaker manager Ralf RangnickCredit: MatchDay Images Limited More

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      Ed Woodward TRIPLED Man Utd’s value to £2.4bn… the Glazers will miss him and his ‘official noodle partners’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans might be happy to wave goodbye to Ed Woodward.But the people who count at Old Trafford will not be celebrating his departure.
      Ed Woodward will leave his role as executive vice-chairman of Man Utd at the end of the monthCredit: Reuters
      Woodward leaves Old Trafford after helping TRIPLE United’s valueCredit: PA
      For club owners the Glazers, what really matters is the bottom line.
      Cold, hard cash. And Woodward has delivered for them, all the way back to his part as a banker with JP Morgan, who engineered their leveraged buy-out in 2005.
      That valued the club at £800million. Now it is worth TRIPLE that, a mighty £2.4BILLION.
      Forget the scorn that was directed at the Red Devils for their “noodle partner”, social media obsession and fascination with the Far East.
      As far as the Glazers were concerned, Essex boy Woodward, 50, absolutely delivered.
      Yes, the club has piled up debt, although that now stands at £419m, down £50m in a year.
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      And the regular dividend payments — with the latest one to shareholders totalling £11m due today — have helped keep the Glazers sweet.
      Appointed to head the club’s commercial and media unit in 2007, Woodward scoured the globe for sponsors, more than doubling commercial revenue by 2012, when he was executive vice-chairman.
      When chief exec David Gill stepped down — at the same time as Sir Alex Ferguson retired — the following year, it was Woodward who became the top dog.
      Commercially, if not on the pitch, the last eight seasons have been a triumph. Sponsorship, retail, merchandising and licensing earned United £130m in 2013.
      By 2020, the last commercial year pre-pandemic, that figure was £279m.
      Last year it was still £232m despite a season behind closed doors.
      And remember that £800m valuation in 2005? Well, United have a market capitalisation — the number of shares multiplied by their price — of just under £2.4bn. Job done.
      Well worth the £21m in salary Woodward has bagged since taking over from Gill in 2013? That’s for others to decide.
      Ed Woodward has pocketed a cool £21million during his time at Manchester UnitedCredit: GETTY
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      in Soccer

      Newcastle fan holds up hilarious sign urging Cristiano Ronaldo to join club from Man Utd in the summer

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      A HOPEFUL Newcastle fan urged Cristiano Ronaldo to join them from Manchester United with a hilarious sign. The Toon army are hoping for a big few transfer windows ahead following their £300million Saudi takeover.
      A Newcastle fan urged Cristiano Ronaldo to join them
      And one supporter has aimed high by attempting to convince 36-year-old Ronaldo across to St James’ Park.
      The wishful thinker held up a banner which read: ‘It’s nearly 2022 NUFC is the club for you.’
      They even mocked up an image of the Portugal captain in a Newcastle jersey.
      Not even Ronaldo could bail United out at Newcastle, with Edison Cavani’s equaliser rescuing them a point.
      Allan Saint-Maximin’s stunning solo opener had put the hosts on track just seven minutes in and the forward ran the show from there on.
      Cavani’s leveller meant United were sparred defeat but Newcastle walked off the pitch feeling hard done by.
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      Newcastle hit the post and saw David de Gea pull off a world class save late on to keep the game level.
      Sean Longstaff said: “On the overall balance of the game I thought we deserved three points.
      “We created a lot of chances – the most we’ve created for a long time.
      “So it’s a disappointed dressing room but we know we can put in performances like that and that’s a massive boost.
      “The manager said we created a lot of chances and played well and it’s a performance to be proud of.
      “We need to do that every week now. We know if we perform like that we’ll pick up points.”
      Cristiano Ronaldo during Man Utd’s draw with NewcastleCredit: Getty More