Manchester United’s decision to sign Cristiano Ronaldo was influenced by their failed pursuit of Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, according to former Red Devils defender Rio Ferdinand. He revealed that Ronaldo wasn’t initially the club’s priority target, with Ronaldinho being their primary focus.
” I remember when Cristiano Ronaldo signed we went on tour to Lisbon and he was lucky that we signed him. It was only on the disappointment of not signing Ronaldinho that summer,” Ferdinand disclosed on The Obi One podcast.
United had aggressively pursued Ronaldinho after his stellar performances at Paris Saint-Germain, but a last-minute twist saw him choose Barcelona over Old Trafford. This turn of events prompted the Red Devils to shift their attention to Ronaldo, ultimately securing his transfer from Sporting Lisbon in 2003 for €19 million.
Ferdinand elaborated on how close United was to signing Ronaldinho before he had a change of heart: “He was away on pre-season and we were as close as announcing him and giving him a number but I think he ended up changing his mind at the last minute and signing for Barcelona. It’s strange really because we played Barcelona on that pre-season tour.”
Despite missing out on Ronaldinho, Ronaldo’s arrival proved to be a resounding success for Manchester United, as he went on to achieve greatness at the club and beyond.
Meanwhile, United are reportedly eyeing KRC Genk midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, with a potential £26 million move in the works. The 19-year-old Belgian has impressed with his performances, and United are keen to secure his signature before the transfer window closes in four days.
