Aug 07
Ronaldo Speaks… Finally
About time, innit? I think this was nearly a good month and a half late, but it did come. Of course, it could be said that he knew, by now, there was no way of moving to Real Madrid and he had to lay it bare some time. However, what he did say here was quite easily the most interesting interview he’s ever given.
This is what I wanted to hear in the beginning. I never demanded loyalty from Ronaldo. I always knew he wanted to move to Real Madrid, but it was the manner in which he handled the situation that I was concerned about. And let’s get this out of the way first: he didn’t handle it well (and I am making the biggest of understatements.)
But his interview surprised a lot of us with his honesty. Whilst there is a good chance that his PR might be working really hard at mending broken bridges with the fans, a lot of the stuff he said seemed rather spontaneous.
The admission of guilt would stand out among the more prominent of his quotes. But what caught my attention was this:
People have to understand one thing: at the age of 18 I arrived at a dream club like Manchester United. It was a dream come true. But, even at that moment, I was thinking about playing in England for some years and then going to play in Spain. Even at that time I was thinking that way, and I always gave 100% everything. Why lie? I’m not going to be a hypocrite and say the opposite of what I think, like some others do. I said exactly what I thought: I have a dream of playing at Real and I thought it was time to move on. People can’t be upset about me fulfilling a childhood dream.
In a world of badge kissing and players expounding their love for one club before turning their back, this came as a breath of fresh air. He admitted to using United as a sort of a stepping stone and I applaud his honesty. I never expected loyalty as I’ve mentioned countless times earlier, but at least there is some consistency. The interview is full of juicy quotes so I urge you all to read it in it’s entirety.
But is this enough to change my opinion of him?
The answer to that is no. It’s easier to say it now, but I was prepared to hear similar remarks of arse-licking once it became rather apparent that he was going to stay for another season at least. An interview like this can’t change the summer of hurt. Whilst his remarks now are welcome, they have come very late. During this period, a lot of us have been dragged through what should have been a memorable summer.
He will show his commitment on the pitch — of that I have little doubt. But he needs to show the desire to fight for the shirt — not his desire to fight for Ronaldo and Ronaldo alone. I could be asking too much here, but I am not going to let an interview change my opinion of him overnight. I won’t boo him, because I don’t think that’s right. But I won’t love him like I love some other players. I have become a complete Rio Ferdinand fan but that was from the way he has conducted himself over the past couple of seasons. And it’s a sum of tangibles and intangibles that will help him earn my respect.
It’s a pity such a phenomenal player would struggle to become a United legend. I will reserve my judgement on Ronaldo indefinitely. I’ve said this previously and I will continue to stand by it: it will still take Ronaldo a Herculean effort to win my respect — like it even matters to him. But since some people were curious to know what I thought, I decided to document my thoughts once again.
At the moment, Ronaldo’s short term future is secure before Madrid’s sharks come a-circling in 2009. Meanwhile, our side is teeming with very promising Brazilians (Anderson, Possebon, Rafael and Fabio). What are the chances that one of them begin to start throwing cursive glances at Spain in about a couple of years?
Related items from Red Rants:- Featured Video: Ronaldo - A Mini-Documentary
- Sunday Roundup: Heinze Speaks Finally
- Wenger Speaks Sense As Platini Loses his Mind
- Ferguson Speaks as he Returns to Old Trafford
- Injury Update | ‘Lion’ Tevez Speaks | So Does Carrick
Tags: Opinions/Columns
August 7th, 2008 at 10:30
well said RR and I agree with you. I think what gets me so worked up by the whole thing is that CR sees Real as the pinnacle of club football and not United. I’d rather players try to use Real as a stepping stone to get their dream move to United! But I guess it has to do with where you are from and what team you see as your “dream” team when you are growing up.
I’m also not sure how much of the interview I totally believe given that the PR people will be working their (evil) magic. Its just going to be hard to watch him give 100% knowing that he really doesnt mean it and hes off to Real next summer. It’s like you say, he may give his all this season, but hes giving it for himself, not for us.
August 7th, 2008 at 10:30
He just knows that United won’t sell him, so now he has to stay. He has behaved like a spoilt child all summer and Fergie has put him into line.
He wants to leave no doubt, to be honest I like others wish he had gone. He has put a dark cloud over last seasons triumphs, which is a shame, and will never be a legend @ Old Trafford in my eyes.
August 7th, 2008 at 10:35
he’s here now he is a great player and he’s gonna lead us to more glory even if he one wishes he goes to madrid and him saying he’s won everything possible is true a new challenge is something everyone would want after a few years but i think him commiting could lead to contract extenstion come the end of the season which could mean he could be here for a number of years, with the team that we have there is always gonna be speculation all we gotta do is what fergie did sit back and lets the press go crazy end of the day he’s the no1 player in the world and he’s at united… lets look forward to the new season and hopefully more trophies and hopefully equalling the scouse cunt’s record (shut em up, god that record gets old!!)
August 7th, 2008 at 10:37
Another ‘And Finally’ moment - Fergie acknowledges we’re light up top (and that Saha’s future is ‘undecided’. Interesting) Link
August 7th, 2008 at 10:42
Another good post mate. spot on. we neeeeed to be on the lookout for a replacement. the scouts are capable, they gave us Nani, anderson, and the da silva twins.
this is because CR has a lot to prove. his comments made me feel (for a half second or two)like he might honour his contract. he might, that is possible (pleeease god let it happen) but we have come close to losing him. next time we should be prepared. and, we should teach the younger ones why they should stay with us.
I strongly believe that he will fight for himself. to get the ballon d`or this winter. then leave in the summer. or even worse, january.
But on the other hand, he could rediscover his love for United. the players, the staff, the fans. thats why we have to give him as much support as we can, because he could decide old trafford is the place to be (or to simply honour his contract)
its unlikely, but we HAVE to try.
August 7th, 2008 at 10:49
The moment the United fans start singing a Ronaldo song (if ever) will be a sad one. We should never forget.
Oh, and by the way, he spoke very carefully about RM, showing that he didn’t want to upset them. Ok Cristiano, don’t worry. They’ll come back next year to get you. Be patient!
August 7th, 2008 at 10:49
He is 22, he comes from the Iberian Peninsula of course he is going to want to play forReal or Barcelona as are all people from that region. The only difference with Ronaldo is that he has been honest about it. Would you rather have a Barry, Gerard, Adebayor who say they will stay for ever and then turn round and want to go? Give him the benefit of the doubt. I can barely remember when I was 23 but I’m sure I wasn’t any more perfect than I am now. We all make mistakes, some of us are just less good at admitting them. If you need time don’t cheer him, but at least don’t boo him as the only people that helps is the opposition! if he is good enough for Fergie, he is good enough for me. just let’s hope that his ankle is ok and that he can help take us to more glory this year!
Ella
August 7th, 2008 at 10:52
But who to buy Beachryan! I have always stated my preferred three. Aguero Huntelaar Berbatov. Berbatov wants barcelona, looks like he is unaware of the plight of strikers from here going to spain. Aguero doesnt want to come, he is priced highly, but worth every penny, Huntelaar has stated his desire to play for a club like us, but his club has had no bids. in my opinion, the silence on the huntelaar front, fuelled by the ronaldo smokescreen, means that we may put in an offer, wishful thinking maybe, but SAF doesnt really have another option, and, he has admitted we are short on strikers. JUST BRINK IN A CLASS PLAYER (no reference to Huntelaar meant)
August 7th, 2008 at 11:01
Berbatov wants to sign for us, but we won’t pay what Spurs want, or in my cynical view we are not spending any money @ the moment.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:13
Sir Alex said once he had made known to Ronaldo the stand of United, the matter settled. I am just wondering whether United and Sir Alex were partly to blame for the present situation. If Sir Alex had held the talk with Ronaldo earlier, this whole saga (or circus) could have been put to bed long long time ago.The longer the delay, the more the damage is done to the relation between Ronaldo and the fans.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:18
@Stephen: On the Berba situation, i think ManUtd do not want to be held to ransom over our obviously pressing need for a striker. We’ll hold out for a while, and as Tottenham get more desperate, we’ll hopefully get him on the cheap.
Also, does anyone find it weird that no club in the world is interested in signing Huntelaar. The guy is supposed to be a goal machine, yet not one bid!!! Is there something they know that we don’t?
August 7th, 2008 at 11:22
I am not one to take things at face value. Cristiano,Mendes and co knew by now that he wasnt going anywhere. Contractual obligations,anyone. The interview is uncharacteristic. He is an egotistical self-obsessed man. Considering the lack of dramatic performances this year from Hollywood,he may have just earned himself an Oscar nomination for that scripted performance. Here is a man who believes the world revolves around his rear end. And he probably will point out evidence like fans who will in a twinkling of an eye throw themselves at his gold covered feet,to be washed with the ointment of his arrogance aka urine. Please this is the guy who claimed only a month or so ago that all will be forgiven when he scores a couple of goals. He is even confident he will get the same golden reception that we owe him when he comes. Right. Please people 4 once lets show him that we are not his ass polishers. Singing Ronaldo songs even when he aint playing eg at Stamford bridge. How about recognizing the other players. Sing about the tireless Roovez,the inconsistent but commited Giggs,the passionate Rio,the humble Wes,the industrious Evra or the emerging Anderson and his Brazilian henchmen. Maybe they will appreciate the affection. Busy booing Giggs a man who quietly declined offers from AC Milan and Juventus in his prime. Quietly. Please at least wait to get objective perspective before cowering over Cris all over again. Disoriented rant over
August 7th, 2008 at 11:25
@Gabriel: I agree on both points mate, I know or hope we are playing hard ball with Spurs but we could end up the egg on por faces if on 31st of August we end up without a striker, which we do need. I don’t subscibe to the school of thought that we did well last season, so we don’t need another forward, or Manucho and Campbell are the awnser.
We need a top draw striker, I have seen Huntelaar play live and he is excellent, great movement, real goal threat. Fergie either has put his eggs in the Berba basket, or we have no intention of buying which is worrying me! I hope I am wrong.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:33
@allmanunited: Now, people are blamin United and SAF for this saga???
Fergie and United have always maintained the stance of Ronaldo not goin; it’s just that moron Calderon and his fellow minions - schuster, marca, blatter etc - that wouldn’t shut up about it. The lad obviously did want the move, but like I said before he would come to realize that ManUtd is the best place for him, not only in his footballing career, but as an individual too.
SAF has come out defending the lad as he probably knows more than us what he must have been going through; let’s face it, it was a tough decision for him and there were some harsh words about him in the press. I personally think SAF and United acted arccodingly and waited for the right time to allow Ronnie to make his explanation/apology; as it is quite close to the start of the season and the press wouldn’t have the time to twist it as much!
August 7th, 2008 at 11:34
fucking prat, he ruined are transfer plans most likely.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:37
They mentioned on Talk Sport this morning, that Berbatov is signing for us in the next 48 to 72 hours. Somebody ringing in asked them where they got that kind of info from, and that they didn’t believe it. The sports commentator was furious that he wasn’t believed, and said his sources were reliable, and he would be proved right. So who knows eh?.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:39
@Craig Mc: Was it the ever reliable source and Stretford End (not so) favorite Alan Brazil?
August 7th, 2008 at 11:42
@Gabriel: I would not have this idea if SAF did not say that once he made known to Ronaldo of United’s stance in their recent face-to-face talk, the matter settled.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:50
The problem is if we could have cashed in on the greay one for £60/70/80m as reported, then surely that is good business sense?
He doesn’t want to play for us, he is at the height of his stock value, we could have re invested on 5/6 new players.
Now what are the odds we will have the same saga next season, or worse he winds his contract down and leaves on a free.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:52
Jay wire, I agree. Wholeheartedly.
But give him a chance. he may be odds on to move to madrid this time next year, but, he still has something to prove, and if he proves it, lets all get behind him. we all want his feet to do the talking. he may change his mind………
August 7th, 2008 at 11:56
Wow, I thought I was the biggest sceptic, but I think the Ronnie’s interview was genuine. Judging by the mood of some of you, I can see that he is not going to be given a ticket to easy street. Shame - because Fergie is demanding we fans should forgive and forget. My only concern was whether a deal had been done to get Madrid off our backs, but nowhere in Ron’s interview does he say he is only back for one season. Unless I missed it. So was the one season return another figment of twisted media imagination, you tell me lol!.
RR - I really don’t think we can dismiss the role of Ron’s agent and Fergie in what you call using United as a stepping stone. He was 18, a mere lad. Several big teams wanted him, INCLUDING Real Madrid, so he could have gone to them at the time. Fergie being Fergie, persuaded Mendes that he would guide Ron’s career development with the greatest care than anyone else. So Mendes guided him towards us. And Ronnie consider it a dream to play for us. I doubt any lad at that age, believes that he is going to be at ONE club for all his footballing career. I know you see that RR, so I am just mentioning it for those who don’t.
JStar, Ronnie doesn’t say in the inteview does he, that Madrid are bigger or better. He talks about Madrid and United being the TWO biggest clubs in the world. I believe the main thrust of his arguement is not that Madrid play the better football, but is more to do with his love and care for his families desires too. He says that culturally Spain is more akin to Portugal in language and culture than England, and Madrid is 1 hour away from home. All his family wants the Madrid move, and Ronnie feels obligated to provide for their happiness too. I think he will leave United when Fergie leaves in 2 years time. I may be wrong, but that’s my thought.
August 7th, 2008 at 11:59
I believe in giving people second chances, but this idiot has put me through hell this summer. I wonder if Ronaldo even cares to think how this kind of situation affects the fans of the club? However, he has had many chances. If anyone recalls there was speculation over his future before he signed a new contract. I waited until that day to buy a Ronaldo shirt. Now I wish I never even got the bloody thing. Now lets see how long it takes for Ronaldo to kiss his badge after scoring. I will support him while he is in a United shirt, but once he leaves he will be dead to me. Never a Legend in my eyes. Lets go and find us a true #7.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:03
Well, as I made very clear in my article on Ronaldo earlier in the summer, I have never hated him and I am pleased he’s staying. I could also understand why he wanted to go.
I was very impressed with what he had to say. It was absolutely honest, didn’t insult anyone’s intelligence and was (for me) sufficiently apologetic.
It’s also interesting the story that is emerging about the injury he was carrying and the way he played through it. Not everyone would have done that, but he did for the good of the club.
@Stephen:It wouldn’t have been good business sense this summer. What would have happened as soon as the market knew that we had £60m plus burning a hole in our back pocket? Well, for a start every club would treble the price of any player we so much as glanced at, never mind bid for. Berbatov, for instance, would be £35m rather than the 20-25m we’re likely to have to pay for him.
Whereas now, we have a year to identify replacements and quietly put deals in place behind the scenes for sensible amounts of money. We can plan for the future, rather than being forced to wing it against our will.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:06
At RR! Mate I dont think that Anderson or the twins would be doing the same! Of that I am sure! These south americans are not like the spanish or portugese! They are very loyal! Including Carlos Tevez! They always give their 110 percent on the pitch!
And I dont think that any of them will go on their own will! Even if they want to, they wont do it like Ronny! But seriously in my mind, no chance!
And to back it up, I cant think of many south americans who are hypocrites!
August 7th, 2008 at 12:06
Id love it if Benzema came too……..
August 7th, 2008 at 12:11
Stephen, no I don’t think Alan Braz was there this morning. I didn’t recognise the voice of the guy who said he had the info about Berba coming to us. Mike was there though, and he was none too pleased with the caller saying he questioned the info given. They said their informer was sound. But then there’s sound and sound isn’t there?. I hope they are right, and we will soon know won’t we.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:13
@Penguin: I understand your point, but now other clubs will believe that he will be sold next season, so the prices will go up then surely?
Plus when was the last time we paid a sensible amount fot a player!
August 7th, 2008 at 12:14
@Red Diablo: Hello! How do you know! Ronaldo has always given 110% on the pitch! Tevez has already said he can see the attraction of Real! And random generalistions about an entire continent of people don’t back any argument up! Thanks!
!
August 7th, 2008 at 12:16
@Craig Mc: I will pray to my Berba God that he his.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:17
@Stephen: Well you may be right, but it gives us a better chance to identify non-mainstream targets. Until the world knows how much we have received, it doesn’t know how much it is acceptable to screw us.
Well, I would say that Evra and Vidic represent quite good value…although I take your point regarding Carrick, Hargreaves, Anderson and Nani.
@edi: And I’d love it if Messi came too, along with youthful reincarnations of Cantona and Zidane, but there’s this irritating thing called realism…
August 7th, 2008 at 12:18
@penguin
thats a very good point. WE NEED A STRIKER!!
i am getting impatient. but i know fergie will do something…
i hope
August 7th, 2008 at 12:23
@edi: I’m quietly confident Fergie has an ace up his sleeve, but patience isn’t my strong point either.
Still, most teams have had a very quiet summer too - everyone thought Chelsea would be selling about half of their first XI and starting again, but no such thing has happened yet.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:23
@Penguin: Name me ONE south american who has been disloyal??
August 7th, 2008 at 12:26
@Red Diablo: Heinze.
(1-0, Penguin)
August 7th, 2008 at 12:28
@Penguin: I agree with Vida and Evra they were superb buys at superb money.
This situation will be intersting, not with us but with Spurs, Berbatov does in my humble view, and Martin Jol’s view want to sign for us and if it does not happen, I would not want to be Ramos on the 1st of September @ training!
this is either great negotiating or a well cock up, if we sign him for £20m great, but if we end up paying nearer £30m then why did we not pay the money?
Or do I say well have none, but just my cynical view!
August 7th, 2008 at 12:40
@Penguin
Fair point. but you gotta have hope right?
anyone know whats up with berba? (transfer wise)
August 7th, 2008 at 12:41
@Penguin: OH yeah! Let me tell you of those who have been loyal! Ronaldiniho, Ronaldo(the fat one), Rivaldo, Maradona, Roberto Carlos! They all have been sold by THEIR CLUBS!
So that would be! Umm, (4-1 to the Red Diablo)
August 7th, 2008 at 12:46
@Red Diablo: Nice comeback. I still think you’re over-generalising to say that all South Americans are loyal (in fact there’s no way you can’t be).
I’d like to think that Anderson and the boys will be United for life, but the fact is that most foreign players will move clubs more and have a desire to return to their home country. That’s one of the major reasons why you pay such a premium for English players - once they get to a big four club, it’s really rare for them to want to leave.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:48
@penguin
who says it cant happen?
August 7th, 2008 at 12:51
Fergies good at making signings out of the blue……
why not?
August 7th, 2008 at 12:51
Red Diablo, they were all sold by their clubs because they wanted to GO lol!.
August 7th, 2008 at 12:53
@Penguin: Yeah! I guess that I am over generalising! But still I seriously think that the Brazilians we have would stay unless the Club wants to be rid of them! Especially Anderson! And i think that just like G. Neville, R. Da Silva should get his chance! I’m actually hoping that Neville doesnt play that much(Please Forgive me)! So that Raphael gets atleast 10 games! (Mate no matter how well Wesley can defend, HE CANT ATTACK)
Like i said yesterday, Ronaldo and Raphael on the Right! R+R+R A winning combination!
Anyway! Nice comeback I guess!
August 7th, 2008 at 12:54
@Craig Mc: After when they were Old and probably useless!
August 7th, 2008 at 13:04
@Red Diablo: I think your exclamation mark key is about the break, but I can’t work out this time round whether you’re being ironic or not.
August 7th, 2008 at 13:07
@Penguin: No i am not being ironic!
August 7th, 2008 at 13:17
@Gabriel:
Its due to the fact he is overpriced and lacks top class experience imho. Alot of teams seem to be atm looking for a proven top class striker to be a focal point of their attack rather than a player who while looking good in his league is playing in a relatively weak league.
He is a player who I think United might go for but only after aquiring a proven top quality Premiership striker who has alot fewer potential stumbling blocks to finding his feet at the club. Times running out atm so I cant see us getting him this summer but if we get a player like Berba I could see us signing Huntelaar in Jan or next summer as our 4th striker to give us the kind of options we had in 99. In that situation he then has time to find his feet in the english league without too much pressure on him
August 7th, 2008 at 13:18
@Penguin: Oh yeah I notice now! Sorry i’ll remember to use full stops as well.
August 7th, 2008 at 13:20
let’s sign Phil Younghusband.
August 7th, 2008 at 13:24
I must say… I will applaud Ronaldo when he comes back and puts on displays for us like he has in the past… but thats as far as it goes…. as a person from how he has been portrayed and at times has portrayed himself… I dont care for him. But maybe this is where we as football fans are wrong today. I confess, Im absolutley obsessed with all the comings and goings, polotics of football in general and my beloved club…. but could you imagine just for one moment if we as football fans could just enjoy football for the art of a game during 90 minutes and not all the bs that goes inbetween? Maybe if we payed more attention to the core reason we’re so passionate and slowed down we would have enjoyed our summer?
I dont know if I totally agree with my own sentiments but maybe we need to digress and enjoy football for football… years ago footballers were applauded but not worshiped but the whole idea of worshiping everyone from celebrities to sport stars is maybe ruining society as a whole and we all know that football is a HUGE part of society today…
August 7th, 2008 at 13:27
@Stephen:
The thing is Ronnie pretty much confirmed that Real didn’t make a bid for him. He says “I knew Real Madrid were interested in signing me and that they had allegedly made a very high offer to Manchester United”. You can’t cash in on something that doesn’t exist. The talk of bids was fantasy on the part of Real Madrid and the media. TBH united are maybe a little at fault here as they could have probably expressed both to ronnie and the world that they hadn’t received any bids at the time as like the rest of us Ronnie seemed to be going on what was coming out of the media and calderons mouth rather than facts.
August 7th, 2008 at 13:36
@Jay wire:
I think you are being a little harsh on him there. Yes there’s a certain arrogance about him that 99.9% of the top players have and need but I think your selling him short. Look at interviews last season, he was not self centred in them, would talk warmly about his team mates and threw heaps of praise on them. Also so much of the interview rings true to the kind of things he has said since day 1 of joining the club. OFC there’s some polish to it but its alot more Ronaldo like than many of the supposed interviews from him over the summer so I’m sure its fairly genuine and not a pre prepared pr exercise
August 7th, 2008 at 13:56
@Red Diablo:
Oh come on South Americans are hardly any more loyal than anyone else. I mean look at Tevez ffs. Like Ronaldo he has expressed his desire to leave the club to fulfil his two dreams of 1)playing in spain and 2) Going back to Boca before he is past his best. Now if Ronaldo is disloyal in your eyes surely that makes tevez just as disloyal.
The only time you really get what you would seem to class as loyalty is
a) The player is at their dream club - see Giggs, Neville and Brown as a perfect example here
b) Their Dream club isnt a valid option, either as they dont want them or they don’t offer the level of football they desire - See people like Ole and Scholes as perfect examples of this and we will probally in future be able to add the likes of Rooney and Rio
August 7th, 2008 at 13:59
yea its a breath of fresh air when you have loyal foreigners at your club like VDS silly evra.
August 7th, 2008 at 14:12
@Stephen: What would make good business sense is agreeing on a transfer that would be contingent on Madrid keeping their mouths shut for some pre-determined period of time. If word of any agreement were to be leaked it would dissolve the deal. This would then provide us with enough time to quietly purchase replacement targets in the transfer window (next summer) without having to pay inflated prices. Once we purchased our replacement targets word of the transfer could then be released.
If I was working at the club and we were willing to sell Ron - I’d encourage us to take this approach. However, I’m happy he’s staying as I’m really curious to see how the club defends the double!
August 7th, 2008 at 14:17
penguin,
i have to disagree with you mate on the point that ronaldo played through his injured ankle for the team. it can be argued that he played through the injured ankle for himself because if he sat out, his ego would have taken a major hit.
August 7th, 2008 at 14:17
@dan(u-ol): Werent there so many rumors of Evra not being satisfied and demanding as high as “120k per week contract or else I leave” in the highly honest English press all of last 6 months at least? Of course they were only rumors but why are people so much easily believing one set of rumors (those related to CR7) but conviniently ignoring those related to Evra?
August 7th, 2008 at 14:27
because the cr7 rumors were started by ronaldo himself, packed with quotes from him, where as with evra, it was pure rumours.
August 7th, 2008 at 14:30
Let’s be real with ourselves…Latin players in general would prefer the lifestyle, language and climate of Spain (maybe italy) to that of England…there are some basic cultural differences that would make this make so much sense…in a way I don’t blame them but it guts me because I KNOW we probably won’t enjoy the services of many of our favorite players for the whole of their careers at United…like Fergie says football has moved on from the one-club player….at this point I think for foreign players we should just hope to get their best years out of them before they move on…sometimes I do fear seeing all these Brazilians in our squad as much as how brilliant they may be…I guess everybody’s different and until you really know the player and their motivations you can never be sure…I’m sure a standard question these days before they sign a player must be…err “what are your long term football playing aspirations”…lol…of course they probably BS but it si obvious the only SPanish/Protugues speaking players that seem to finish their careers here a lot of times are financially motivated…my hope is that we can keep our Brazilians into their late 20s before we move them on…I’m sure people like Davide Petrucci dream one day of returning to their home clubs like Roma…that is the risk you take of signing such players…
August 7th, 2008 at 14:34
@dan(u-ol): whats the difference? a rumor is a rumor! People here were just fighting over rumors! And they still are…
August 7th, 2008 at 14:38
@wakey: I don’t believe a word he sayes mate. That probably did not make a bid for him because they were tring to get hte price down, but I bet personel terms were agreed.
August 7th, 2008 at 14:50
As I said yesterday, well done for saying this Ronaldo, although it’s a bit late. But again I think we don’t understand the allure of Real to European players. 9 european cups, I guess…
I’m hoping that we do well in the Champs League (defending the title is so unlikely) and Real flop it, so he’ll perhaps rethink his “dream”.
And about the love from fans, he’ll have that back in no time. We scream when he scores goals, and it creates a state of adulation and almost love. It’s mental conditioning and as long as he scores regularly he’ll get us all back eventually. But that’s what makes him great: his constant goals.
August 7th, 2008 at 15:00
@dan(u-ol):
Most of the rumours weren’t started by Ronnie though. As he says he seeded it from day 1 by stating it was his dream but Real and their media mouthpeices took that and ran with it creating more and more elaborate rumours.
On another topic. I see Dong came on in the Olympics with 12 mins left and China 1-0 down and went on and grabbed them a point at the death
August 7th, 2008 at 15:16
yes but you’ve proven my point that he started all the rumours, the evra rumours where brought up by nothing, big difference.
August 7th, 2008 at 15:18
Excellent post RR. I’m hoping everyone can get their views out in the comments section of this column and finally let this beast die. I’m beyond tired of talking about Ronny at this point.
For anyone that read the whole interview, if Ronny knows what intransigent is, even the translated equivalent in Portuguese, I’ll eat my shorts. I’m not implying that most of what was said wasn’t genuine, but it was certainly polished by his PR reps.
Does anyone know the seriousness Manucho’s metatarsal injury? I’ve been itching to see him in action for some time now. Although I guess it doesn’t really matter if he is denied a work permit. To go along with that, what are his chances of being approved?
If we get anywhere near the 8.5 million that Keane is allegedly willing to pony up for Saha we are making out like bandits. A fine striker who has been unfortunate with injuries, but his sell-by-date has long since passed. I think 3-4 million from any of the handful of French clubs that have been linked is much more realistic.
I’m hoping TalkSport isn’t blowing smoke. If we can get Berbatov on the heels of ending the Ronaldo debacle it will be a good week for the club.
Squad for Sunday:
VDS
Brown Rio Vids Evra
Nani Scholes Carrick Giggs
Tevez Rooney (I’m hoping his return to training is a sign that he’ll be well enough to play)
August 7th, 2008 at 15:20
@IBleedRed: There is no point in selling Saha if we don’t get Berbatov, we will really be short up front.
August 7th, 2008 at 15:27
@Stephen
What’s the difference if we keep him? He is wholly unreliable and rapidly losing any possible transfer value. Does making five appearances really justify his 80,000 a week salary? Again, I don’t hate guy, I’m just tired of dealing with his situation.
August 7th, 2008 at 15:33
@IBleedRed: I agree mate but we are short up front, and something is better than nothing. He does not deserve his salary one bit, although I like the guy but he lacks heart. He seems to be looking for injuries rather than th eRoy Keane of ignoring them for the team.
If Rooney or Tevez or even worse both get injured we are in big trouble and need bodies. We are desperate for a number 9 type, and if we don’t get anyone then must be worth keeping him until at least Jan. We don’t want to do and Arsenal for example when they sold Diara and were short of cover.
August 7th, 2008 at 15:47
@Stephen: I suppose you are right, but I think it says a lot about our strike force that we “have” to keep Saha in case of injuries. I’m hoping this will be a moot point in the next couple of weeks. The bottom line is we really need a striker.
August 7th, 2008 at 16:04
@IBleedRed: I could not agree with you more mate!
August 7th, 2008 at 16:18
@Craig Mc: I know I am clutching at straws, but was the source re Berbatov a journalist of a random caller?
August 7th, 2008 at 16:28
I Bleed Red, we need TWO really good strikers, one to replace Saha if he goes, and one that we already needed. Fergie seems to think though that Campbell and Manucho will do?. Campbell is not IMO going to make it at all for us. Manucho is good player, but still has no work permit. So when will he get one, surely this should have been applied for several months ago?. United are frustratingly slow. I hope the Talk Sport Berba rumour is true.
August 7th, 2008 at 16:36
Stephen, I only caught the end of the conversation, but it was whoever was standing in for Alan Brazil this morning. He was asked by someone they were interviewing, how he could be sure that Berbatov was signing for us in 48-72 hours. All he would say, was that a good journo never reveals his sources, but he was sure of the Berba signing, because his source was reliable. The guy they were interviewing, was mocking and saying it wouldn’t happen, but Mike and his sidekick were furious, because the source who tipped them about Berba was solid!.
August 7th, 2008 at 16:38
Stephen, with Fergie saying what he did though about not using his cheque book, the mind boggles. I
August 7th, 2008 at 16:44
Never mind transfers, we are busy netting new radio partners. Whooppiee! link
August 7th, 2008 at 16:51
I think in the end everything has worked out pretty well albeit that Ronaldo like RR says was a month and half late coming out with this statement.
I think alot of it is all PR sound bytes but its what we want to hear to keep the peace just too bad he didnt come out with this after the euros.
However he has come clean and said he does want to go to Real Madrid, fair enough we all knew that.
He has paid a big compliment to Utd after all that Fergie, the fans ie the whole club has done for him. Too fecking right!
He is going to stay another season and play his heart out, good. Whether he plays for Ronaldo or for the Shirt at this point I don’t care as long as he puts the performance in and hopefully contributes significantly to anothe fine season of silverware at OT.
At the end of the day he is only staying because he has to and after this season when RM come sniffing again then he will go.
By that stage Fergie and crew will have had enough time to source out a replacement or at least sort out a plan for Utd without Ronaldo. I said when all this started we should sell him but Im glad we are holding onto him for at least one more season so at least we have a bit to work with.
I hate the way he has gone about it and at the end of the day Ronaldo is bit of a knob but fair play to him he has always had his dream of playing for RM so good luck.
Its too bad because despite all that I loved the fella. Probably the best player in the world pulling on our jersey was very exciting and he had the chance to become immortal at OT we’re talking Best, law, charlton, cantona, keane kinda status but because his heart is elsewhere that will never happen now. So next year Ill cheer him out of respect but ill not be singing his songs and my cheers wont have anywhere near the same enthusiasm as past season.
At least now we all know where we stand now!
@Craig Mc: @Penguin:
Lads your right about there being honest in his interview but I do think we need to take it with a pinch of salt as well. This hasn’t turned out quite the way he intended so he’s doing a bit of damage repair with the fans although I dont think its completely contrived.
@Penguin:
I agree I think Fergie has got an ace up his sleeve. He has things well in hand. His interview the other day looked so relaxed as if saying no bother everything is under control
@edi:
With you 100% there mate about Benzema. Top of my list of strikers to bring in but that aint gonna happen. Berbs a decent 2nd and Huntelaar doesnt interest me at all.
If anyone replys to this and I dont get back apologies as this is done in work and I don’t have t’internet at home.
I will reply tomorrow.
August 7th, 2008 at 17:02
@Craig Mc: Good enough for me, I am off now to get my shirt printed!
August 7th, 2008 at 17:52
I am still not convinced about Ronaldo and i will continue to be harsh towards him. He didnt think twice about doing the same 2 me and close 2 half a billion fans so why should I. If u think he is honestly repentant then u must believe anything he throws at u. The guy is only saying this 2 appease the fans. Where do u think he would be without the ultra longsuffering legion of his faithful fans. Who would buy his shirt,would Diesel think their jeans will be still bought in Manchester? Im not rallying any boo boys. I dont condone that behaviour. All im asking is 4 people 2 stop treating him like his an immortal gift for which we are eternally grateful and blessed to have at least show up at OT. Forgive him all u want but i would feel disgraced if he were to turn out an OT legend without repaying the enormous debt he owes us
August 7th, 2008 at 18:02
And to think Rio got a torrid time when he never said anything to contradict his intention 2 play 4 us. In fact he said nothing and now u want to let the blabbermouth off with your apologetic attitudes. Sorry but i dont understand the hypocrisy
August 7th, 2008 at 18:04
Scoop, I genuinely think the interview is Ronnie’s own thoughts, coming out of Ronnie’s own heart feelings. Maybe somebody helped him to put his heartfelt thoughts and concerns into a more polished way, but I believe he is being absolutely honest in the interview. However, if his PR people did help him, then they must have known the questions that were going to be asked beforehand, to have time to prepare. I can’t really see this. As the interview was in Portuguese, Ronnie may have been able to express himself properly, and without misunderstanding. It is hard to do that, when giving interviews in English where English isn’t your national language. Good post though Scoop.
August 7th, 2008 at 18:08
now that ronaldo has come out and given his side of the justification, i think at least the “booing” wont be present at any matches..there might not be any songs sung and applauds given for his goals though…
also, i feel now we will see a difference in the way ronnie celebrates his goals..there will be more of a “team-celebration” than his usual “i am the best” sort of celebration…. i just hope this whole incident opens his eyes and he sees the good in staying at OT for a longer time…
and i just feel berba will come definitely..even if he has to arrive rooney-style, on the last day of the window…
August 7th, 2008 at 18:10
Well written RR. I couldn’t agree more. I will actually give my feelings on what the future holds for Ronny at United. Many think and rightly so that he will be around for just this season and that Madrid have already got a deal in place with United for a sale next year. I don’t buy it. I think in his heart to heart with Ronaldo I think Fergie basically read him the riot act and told him that he would compromise with him. I honestly believe that the compromise is that Ronaldo will be allowed to go at the end of two more seasons and at the same time Fergie retires. It would be fair and kind of a romantic send off for both of them. I think this is a fair compromise and lets not forget that in two years Ronaldo will still only be 25 years old. This gives him many years at the top of his game to play for Madrid. It also gives Fergie two years to plan United’s immediate future without him and Ronaldo. Sounds pretty reasonable to me. What do many of you think of my theory? Be nice!
August 7th, 2008 at 18:49
I am happy by the way he has come out and expressed himself….end of story.
Wanted to ask you folks about one thing:
Rafael Silva has obtained all the plaudits for his performances at the moment. I read somewhere online that Fabio is the one to watch out for out of the two. He was the Brazil U-17 captain(i think) and was one of the highest scorers in the u-17 world championship. I didn’t see his performance in the peterborough game…how was he?
August 7th, 2008 at 18:51
Grognard I agree with you. While Ferguson is still in charge Ronaldo is going nowhere. Ferguson does not compromise and only sells players when he no longer wants them at his club. Once Ferguson goes though Ronaldo will be first out of the door and others could follow. All the more reason to make sure we line up Ferguson’s successor as soon as possible so that there is as smooth a transition as possible and players don’t start planning to time their exit with Ferguson’s departure.
August 7th, 2008 at 18:52
Jay Wire, what do you mean by honestly repentant mate?. Reading thru the interview carefully, he is admitting that he isn’t repentent about what he wanted eventually in his life, a move to Spain. He is not apologising at all for his childhood dream to play in Spain and for seeking to follow that dream. He says plainly, that he doesn’t think we should judge him for that dream. What he is apologising and repenting of, is the way he went about following after his dream, and the damage his actions have brought to the frosty, broken relationships of the two clubs. He takes full responsibility for these things. What I don’t understand, is we all have been demanding for weeks that Ronaldo come out and explain himself, and admit and apologise for actions that have got United fans up in arms against him. Now he has done that, we still want to take issue with him, and continue to criticise. I admit that Ronaldo should have made that interview at the very beginning of all this, and not at the end, and I am still pissed at him for that. However, I find I understand a little more where he is coming from now, since reading the full interview. I am not advocating that everyone suddenly fall all over him again, because I do not think that will happen. However, it will only further effect badly the rest of the players, and our team prospects, if we fans continue to elongate the Ronaldo saga from the terraces. Let sleeping dogs lie now I say.
August 7th, 2008 at 19:03
Grog, I already said what you are saying further up the page, so yes I agree with you. I worked that out when I read the FULL interview that you put up online last night. In that interview Ronnie didn’t say that he was only coming back for one season. This answered the question I was asking in the other thread last night, about pre planned get out arrangements. I felt from the full interview content that Ronnie would stay until Fergie goes.
August 7th, 2008 at 19:15
@Grognard:
Really surprised at you taking such a peaceful stance!
And good to see the
I think your theory is very reasonable indeed and yeah it would be highly appropriate in a romantic sorta way.
All that I hope is that when Ronaldo does eventually leave, it’s not for a knock down price.
Gonna be really interesting when he is fit again and playing.
August 7th, 2008 at 19:24
@Hasan:
I also seen came across reports that Fabio is the one to watch bteween the twins… And that is pretty exciting from what we’ve seen of Rafael!
Fabio was Brazil’s joint top scorer at those U-17 championships.
If I am not mistaken he is right footed.
He was also pretty impressive in the 45min he played. Full of pace and running.
It’s pretty amazing that these guys haven’t played in a year yet managed to perform like that.
August 7th, 2008 at 19:26
@Grognard: Yeah! I totally agree!!
August 7th, 2008 at 19:27
And our President, Musharraf is going to be impeacheD! YES YES YES! NO MORE DICTATORSHIP! WELCOME DEMOCRACY!
August 7th, 2008 at 19:29
@MoYa: Yeah thats what I am trying to say! They sould be given a chance, IN THE FIRST TEAM! Just like Neville!
Brown can defend very well! But he cant attack!
ALSO I dont think that Berba is coming! That’s only a part of me saying this into my brain! I dont know what to believe! HELP ME!!
August 7th, 2008 at 21:11
I will eat my hat if ronaldo is a united come september 2009. and if I was you people don’t get to excited I expect more speculation after january 2009, Grognard I think you are like many fans fickle you completely bashed ronaldo saying this and that now you are saying he could stay longer. I am cheesed off still not only does it take him this long but he completely took away all the shine off our great success.
August 7th, 2008 at 21:22
@Grognard: i dont agree with you on the 2 year thing. I can see your point and indeed it would be kinda nice if he did stay and leave when SAF does but it just dont see it. I think he will def leave next summer no matter what happens this season. And yes he did not say anything about only staying for one season but that means nothing.
Have we learnt nothing in the past few weeks about CR and the things he says and the things he means? Are we going to forgive everything with a couple of goals? I sure as hell wont. And what happens if he kisses the badge? does he suddenly love united again? its all a mess and the sooner we get rid the better…hell if not next summer then XMAS! one year is enough time to find a replacement…we dont neccessarily need two.
August 7th, 2008 at 21:51
Just seen the highlights on BBCi of t