Jul 14
Ronaldo’s Alligator Adventure + Cannavaro - Zola - Eriksson - Pele - Banks - Ferdinand
The Sun runs a story today that Rio Ferdinand could face a four match ban. It’s only the Sun at the moment that carries this ‘exclusive’ (that’s why they call it an exclusive, don’t they?), but one wonders why it’s taken them this long. Ferdinand lashed out after the Chelsea game, which seems like aeons ago. The part of the article that reckons that his captaincy status for England would be threatened is pure bollocks, because that would be Capello’s decision. But if he does get punished, we could be in for a rocky start to the season. Not that I lack confidence in Brown but Ferdinand has grown in stature so much that his assurance is absolutely crucial.
I am not going to cry conspiracy, because if he is found guilty then I couldn’t possibly condone it. I don’t want my players, especially the ones who are the presumed leaders in the side lose it — it shows your weakness more than anything. At the moment I’ll adopt an ‘innocent until proven guilty’ stance.
Chelsea legend, Zola thinks United blundered in letting Rossi go. And he calls him the Italian Messi. Hmm… I was a Rossi fan and was sad that we let him leave. But I guess that will be our cross to bear if he turns out half as good as Messi.
Cannavaro, Eriksson, Pele and Banks — all think Ronaldo must honour his contract. I think he should walk into a cave full of hungry alligators. Upon walking in he realises that the alligators could be a bit of a problem. To his surprise however, he sees that the alligators can speak English and that surprise turns to horror as he’s asked a question by one among the gathering:
‘So have you decided on your future yet?’, asks the one that looked like the papa gator.
‘I will let you know in two to three weeks.’
The papa alligator being visibly unimpressed asked him to be more clear or risk being torn apart.
‘It’s my dream… err… you never know… everyone knows what I want… I like ice creams… err, no sorry, that was a statement for my personal chef. You see, we are slaves and we need to memorize statements… it’s a tough life I say.’
Papa gator also being the smart one realises he isn’t going to get an answer right away so he drags him by his injured ankle deep into the cave as the boy from Madeira curses himself for forgetting to get his hair gel.
He suddenly finds himself tied to a pole and threatened to make a clear statement or risk losing a limb for every word of indecision.
‘No! No! I stay!’, he screams.
Baby gator, being the hungry one, in enthusiasm (or you could call it youthful exuberance), chewed up his left foot anyway. His left foot gone, it didn’t matter whichever club he went now, and the alligators were hungry and rather miffed that they had to wait so long for dinner. There was only one thing they could really think of now.
The casual passerby heard only shrieks — one that went, ‘I stay!’ and one that went, ‘I go!’ appearing alternately.
Note: The alligator adventure was a figment of the imagination. A poor one, no doubt — but no animals were harmed while thinking this up. It may have been inappropriate, but in the face of slow news, the mind tends to go idle, and we all know what they say about idle minds and devil’s workshops.
And with these thoughts, enjoy your Monday.
Related items from Red Rants:- Links of the Day
- Do you like Rio Ferdinand?
- Madrid Win Title | Rossi Expects Chance
- Scholes Article. Rio Ferdinand. Rooney Video
- Future Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand named England skipper
Tags: Site News
July 14th, 2008 at 10:05
Hope everyone had a nice weekend…
It was wonderful to read about Solskjaer’s reserve team exploits. What a true class act this man is, and his love for United is truly legendary. This man really is a credit to the game and to the club, and seeing him overseeing the United youngsters on some quiet pitch really is a testament to that.
Let us as all take a moment to appreciate his dedication to our club. If only a certain Portuguese prima donna had half the temperament and humility that Ole has. Solskjaer was no joke on the pitch either; the man had an incredible knack for scoring and we all remember that warm Barcelona evening where he proved that sometimes, in both football and life, all things are possible.
Ole is one of those people that you just want to see succeed, and he has done that and more throughout his career. Perhaps one day we will see him managing United in the Old Trafford dugout. It may seem far away now, but would you bet against him? Ask Bayern Munich how they feel about that!
“When Teddy scored, I thought, yes! I’m going to play 40 minutes of a Champions League Final. That’s going to be unbelievable.”
OLE SOLSKJAER
July 14th, 2008 at 10:43
Was the alligator adventure a figment of your imagination, or was it a clever ploy to draw in more readers?
July 14th, 2008 at 11:01
@RedAddict: The alligator adventure began as an afterthought as I was running out of stories to write about — so I thought, what the hell, at least I’m going to write something that I declare to be fictional unlike the tabloids.
Regarding drawing visitors, I think I am past that phase. Otherwise I’d be writing 5 posts a day as against the one/two.
Or at least writing pretty headlines to draw in visitors isn’t going to be my idea of growing the readership.
And I’m sure Ahmed will attest to the fact that I normally write poor headlines. Of course, when you write so many posts, there is a chance that some might turn out to be enticing.
July 14th, 2008 at 11:46
Hi guys, i would like to ask wat’s ur thoughts on the aguero report. His agent claims one big english club already tabled a bid. Which teams do you think it is since he already said it’s not chelsea. My guess is manchester united, out of the other 3 i think only man utd can afford to pay that big sum of money that alt madrid maybe asking for.
July 14th, 2008 at 11:52
Sounds like we have agreed £28m for Berbatov, very good player but very, very expensive why do we always pay over the odds for players?
July 14th, 2008 at 11:53
@Reds Of Manchester: I think you might get the answer to your question if you refer to yesterday’s comment thread
July 14th, 2008 at 12:13
I’m still cut up about Rossi. Had such clear quality, and we never gave him a chance. Then again, at the time we had Ruud and Rooney, and a fit Saha, so he wasn’t really likely to get a look in. I always likened him to a left footed Michael Owen in playing style, and think he would have done well in our squad. But time to move on as far as he goes.
I’m hoping we have the Berba thing done and dusted shortly. I say pay them £28m but mainly in conditional clauses, much like Carrick’s deal. If he helps us win everything, then he’ll be worth it! I really think he’ll be a great success, he just has so much quality.
I’m not sure where the papers are getting this crap about Fergie cancelling a trip to go beg Ronaldo to come back. I think we should just leave him down there and tell real to send a large check back our way. Apparently some supporters protested him at the reserves match - i say good for them. Any bets if we sell him he’ll be back miraculously in less than 12 weeks…?
Finally, Rooney looks fat, but is still deceptively quick. If we do get Berba I can’t wait to see him operating in the hole again, should be a big year for our newly married man.
July 14th, 2008 at 12:23
RR writes horrible headlines…
July 14th, 2008 at 12:27
The whole idea of Rossi just brings sadness to me. Being American, him choosing to play Italy instead of the United States was bad enough. But then we had to go and sell him too. I had high hopes for him.
Where is this report about us agreering 28 mil for Berba? I haven’t seen it anywhere.
July 14th, 2008 at 12:31
Re, the Rio situation. The Daily Mail says: “Rio Ferdinand seems certain to escape any formal sanction over his part in last season’s “Battle of Stamford Bridge . . . Reports have emerged of a possible four-match ban for the Manchester United defender . . . While the official report is still being compiled, there has been no suggestion Ferdinand will face any penalty, let alone miss the opening four matches of the season.”
July 14th, 2008 at 12:36
Daily Mail.com matey
July 14th, 2008 at 12:37
28 million for Berba. Seems to be done. First First team signing.!!!! Yipeeeee!!!
July 14th, 2008 at 12:41
Daily Mail: Utd to buy Berbatov which will lead to an increase in house prices
July 14th, 2008 at 12:42
How reputable is the daily mail?
July 14th, 2008 at 12:45
@Stephen: ‘Cos we are Man Utd, that’s why! We are one of the three most rip-offable clubs in world football (the others being Chelski and Fake Madrid). £28m for Berbatov is slightly OTT (I would pay no more than £22-25m max) but we’ll let it go just the once as he is a truly awesome player!
I’m just licking my lips at the prospect of Berbatov linking up with Rooney, Ronaldo and Tevez next season and banging in the goals for us like there was no tomorrow! I predict that round November time, when Ronaldo is back from injury, and other players are back from Olympics/suspensions, it will be all systems go and no one will be able to live with us!!!
July 14th, 2008 at 13:03
@Ahmed Bilal: It was actually the title that drew me to come in
As a Red Bulgarian I should probably rejoice that our Captain is joining ManUtd, but knowing him as a sulky, moody, broody and generally unreliable guy I have a bad feeling about this signing.
What was wrong with Huntelaar or any other prospects that were younger, less moody and certainly cheaper?
July 14th, 2008 at 13:17
If you didnt know, Aguero is dating Maradonas daughter.
July 14th, 2008 at 13:45
great news…..I can not wait to see him together with rooney….best possible choice…
July 14th, 2008 at 13:45
The Sun v The Daily Mail? I’d take the DM’s version of events over the Sun most days.
July 14th, 2008 at 13:56
I want to look back some 6 years, to the autumn of 2002. Our team was not playing so well, they were chasing Arsenal and we could keepplayers fresh cause of injuries. The team we used most was:
Barthez
G.Neville Rio Oshea Silvestre
Beckham Keane Scholes Giggs
Forlan van Nistelrooy
subs: Ricardo, Blanc, Veron, Fortune, P.Neville
The summer of 2003 we sold David Beckham to Real Madrid and Veron to Chelski. our team changed alot for the 2003/04 season:
Howard
G.Neville Oshea Rio/Wes Silvestre/P.Neville
Ronaldo Keane Scholes Giggs
Forlan/Saha Ruud
Subs: Ricardo, Wes, Neville, Djembax2, Kleberson, Forlan. 7 changes!
not a lot of buys, but still a changed team. The summer of 2004 we bought Smith, Rooney, Heinze and Fletcher was pulled up to the first team. Our team changed again.
Howard/Carroll
Neville Rio Wes/Silvestre Heinze
Ronaldo Keane Scholes Giggs
Rooney Ruud
subs: Howard/Carroll, Silvestre, Fletcher, Smith, Saha. 6 changes!
A really good team that probably had won the Prem ahd it not been for really, really, really, really, really horrible finishing.
Everyone screamed for the new players to make this team better than Chelseas and Arsenals. When we only bought VDS and Park, almost everyone look with wide eyes at Fergie. “Has he given up?” was the questions fans asked of Fergie. When we lost against boro and Lille, Keane left and Scholes got injured for 6 months no one believed we could win anything again. But our win against Chelsea in November made fans optimistic again. We ended in 2 place after chasing Chelski like hungry dogs for most of the season. Had it not been for Sunderland, we could have won it. Our team was:
VDS
Neville Rio Wes/Vidic Silvestre
Ronaldo Fletcher/Oshea Giggs Park
Rooney Saha/Ruud
subs: Howard, Silvestre, Flecther, Smith, Ruud. 6 changes!
And when Carrick was bought for £20 mill, many fans could take more. Papers were predicting a 5th or 6th place finish. But we won the Prem 2 games before the end. Our team was solid, but too much used so we didnt win the CL or FA cup because of fatigue. 2006/07 team:
VDS
Neville/Brown Rio Vidic Evra/Heinze
Ronaldo Carrick Scholes Giggs
Rooney Saha/Larsson/Smith/Ole
subs: TK, Brown, Oshea, Fletcher, Ole. 6 changes.
Out of nowhere Fergie signed Nani, Owen and Anderson in May. Tevez joined later. And everyone knows what ahppened later…
Most used team for 2007/08
VDS
Brown Rio Vidic Evra
Ronaldo Carrick Scholes Nani/Giggs
Rooney Tevez
subs: TK, Oshea, Hargreaves, Anderson, Giggs. 5 changes!
Now, my point is that our team has changed every season. We went on from Beckham to Ronaldo, Keane to Carrick, Ruud to Tevez and Barthez to VDS. If Fergie really is only thinking about signing one player, this will be the season that Fergie has chaged the team the least. If I can make a wild guess for our most used team next season:
VDS
Neville Rio Vidic Evra
Ronaldo Carrick Anderson/Scholes Nani
Rooney Tevez/Berbatov
subs: Foster, Brown, Oshea, Hargreaves, Anderson, Giggs, Tevez/Berbatov. 3 changes!
In Fergie we trust!
July 14th, 2008 at 14:01
Sorry for a too long comment…
July 14th, 2008 at 14:08
@Red Ranter: Great work RR! “as the boy from Madeira curses himself for forgetting to get his hair gel”
Would love to read more such stories.
My Cast:
Ronaldo - CR7 (Does that stand for Cunt Ronaldo 70 million?)
Papa gator - Sir Alex
Baby gator - RR
July 14th, 2008 at 14:10
@Reds Of Manchester: with the potential sale of Hleb and Adebayor expected to genarate over 30 million I have a hunch that the English club that Agueros agent is talking about is Arsenal.
Wenger has been long time admirer of the player and if some of the rumours are true, he has alredy made some contact about Aguero.
Having said that, even if it is Arsenal, SAF should be watching the situation very closely and if there is the slightest chance of Aguero leaving Athletico then we should move swiftly to get him coz the kids an absolute star and if we could get him to OT, then I honestly wouldnt give a monkeys about Ronaldo leaving.
July 14th, 2008 at 14:15
28 million is insane for a 27 year old with limited sell-on value who is unproven at the highest level. It would be a good signing but another instance of us paying above the odds.
Loved the alligator story. A perfect come-uppance for our forked tongue superstar. I really wish he’d stop listening to his advisors and man up and clarify his position.
Also read in the Mail he’s broken up with Nereida, which means one less Spanish influence in his life.
July 14th, 2008 at 14:20
@colver: most of the reports that I have read say the the Berbatov fee will be around the 24 million mark and considering that no other clube are competing for his signature at the minute, it puts United in a strong position.
July 14th, 2008 at 14:21
someone’s in a fantasy mood - i hope it sticks to advetures with animals and not humans
/sarcasm
July 14th, 2008 at 14:22
@raj k:
Raj, I think Grog best suits the role of baby gator…
He is frustrated to death with the Ronaldo stories…
July 14th, 2008 at 14:25
LOL @ Nereida Gallardo! Just read in the Mirror that she broke one of the metatarsals in her foot as she slipped whilst out shopping for lingerie! I’m sure she and CR7 will enjoy a nice convalescence together, comparing foot injuries…
July 14th, 2008 at 15:07
Berba is a class act, but we should in my view play hard ball with somw of these clubs, we were the only club interested, and Spurs probably want to cash the player in, but we are United and seem to be a soft touch eith regards to the teansfer fees we pay.
July 14th, 2008 at 15:17
If the news that we’ve REALLY signed Berbatov are for real, then I guess it’s the Dipsomaniac’s day out. And like I’ve mentioned one too many times, I don’t give a flying fuck if it’s for 28 mil, 38 mil or 1 bil even. We need a striker, Berbatov and Huntelaar were on the radar for too too long, and now, we sign berbie. Mates, to hell with the price, we are champions.
@ Colver
I have to disagree that 28mil is too much for Berbie and that he is unproven. Trust me, add the Berbatov skill factor to our present squad, and we all will witness the best of Rooney and an even greater goal’s difference if the title race even remotely goes to the wire. Berbie means class, and once the attitude thing is sorted out by SAF, he’ll be THE incredible addition.
@ Grognard
Our supposed signing of Berbatov would mean that Huntelaar would never bleed red. I too have loved the kid for a long time, but I guess it all came down to the boss making a choice. I would really really hate to see him play for L’arse though, especially with Fabregas feeding him those passes.
Sorry I didn’t respond to your comment on my Platini outburst, I sure hope SAF sorts it out ASAP. I see your point about us selling rather than trying to prove a point to Madrid and the likes. Thing is, even after realizing the benefits and pitfalls as you elaborated, and understanding why selling will bring more joy to us in the long run, I for one will be sad in the short run. I hope that run is not for too long though. I love Man Utd, and I pray Fergie and all figure it out real quick.
If we do sell though, I think the first thing will be to weaken their team too. Take Ramos, and either of Robinho or Sneidjer( if he will change he’s mind) plus a chunk of cash. Make an audacious bid for Sergio Aguero since the Kakas and Riberys are unavailable, then maybe bid for Altintop. Hate to say it, but replacing Judas will take at least 4 players (including Berbatov).
I hope to return to happiness real soon though. Viva United.
By the way, I’m from Nigeria.
July 14th, 2008 at 15:29
Hey all!
I have been reading this blog for a year now. And i have to say, this is by far the best united blog i av seen. Great work RR.
And the alligator story is really funny
Grt news regarding Berba, can some post the link having that news..
July 14th, 2008 at 15:56
@ Colver, how can you say Berbatov is unproven?? 27 goals in 69 games in the premiership is not proof enough? especially for a side which gave up after winning the league cup this season?
@RedSheDevil Wasn’t Cantona in the same mold of sulky, moody, broody and he turned out quite well!
July 14th, 2008 at 16:15
“Atletico Madrid have stated they do not want to sell forward and reported Manchester United target Sergio Aguero and that there has been no offer made by any Premier League team. (1215 BST, BBC Sport)”
So much for that, I guess!
July 14th, 2008 at 16:40
Uzbek side Kuruchii claim they have signed Samuel Etoo
July 14th, 2008 at 17:13
Can we sell Ronaldo now please!!!!!!!
July 14th, 2008 at 17:14
@Red Ranter: The alligators story was nice but just replace the alligators with some killer crocs wearing the squad training kits of the real Manchester United when and if he ever returns to the training pitch. His own teammates may decide to have him for lunch instead. Appetizing thought. Since Ronaldo is so full of it when he taliks, I think I’ll treat myself to a Bologna sandwich and savor every bite.
July 14th, 2008 at 17:33
@Stephen: Nothing is official yet and there are differing reports. One even says that United have said not a penny more than 25 million. The reason teams like United are fleeced is because the teams selling know they have the money and if they want the player bad enough, they’ll pay for him. This happens when @Piper: the selling team finally agrees to a position where they are willing to sell. This perks up the anticipation and desire of the buyer and thus the big automobile sale begins on the showroom floor. In that scenario the car salesman will almost always win because the prospective buyer has bitten at the bait.
Berbatov will cost a mint and I am not entirely sure he is worth it. He’s a very technically gifted player and the closest thing physically to Eric Cantona on the field but not the same mentally I’m afraid. He is often lazy and often requires special motivation to get him into the next gear. But one can never underestimate his imagination, creativity and ability to finish with the most elegant finesse skill set in the EPL. I she what we need, yes and no. We need a striker who can score and a presence in the box. He is that but he is far from prolific and there are others who are better at scoring than him. Huntelaar is twice the goal scorer that Berbatov is and two years younger as well. What he doesn’t have is Berbatov’s pace and finesse. He also doesn’t have Berby’s ability to set up others for goals. Dimitar is exceptional passer of the ball with the vision of a world class attacking midfielder. Add to this his exceptional dribbling, one touch and trapping skills and you have a complete player who better fits United’s current style of play. I do agree that the team would have to adapt their style somewhat to accommodate Huntelaar as he is not a play maker for others but is just a goal scoring machine with a special radar for being in the right place at the right time to score goals. Lets put it this way. If there was the smallest chance that things could get positively resolved with Ronaldo and he decided to stay long term, then I would prefer Berbatov. However, without Ronaldo I feel the team will need to change it’s style of play and incorporate a more British style to their game. More crosses and more presence in the box. Then Huntelaar would be my first choice. So as it stands right now, I believe the Hunter is my first choice but either way, both players would bring a needed skill set and the presence we need up front. Now if we could get rid of Ronaldo and ad Aguero, then that would make life very sweet indeed.
July 14th, 2008 at 17:36
@Piper: Until I hear a confirmation by the Guardian, BBC and Sky Sports, I don’t believe anything. The rest are just tabloids and hacks and they have no problem lieing through their teeth and making up news. Wait for the real journalists before you really believe it. Untitl then you can still have fune with the tabloids as they are if not true, certainly entertaining. YUK!
July 14th, 2008 at 17:38
@Nino: You are still optimistic about Ronaldo I see. Good for you mate….good for you. Whatever gets you through the night.
July 14th, 2008 at 17:45
@ Grog, with Berba you know what you are going to get, my first choice. like yours is Huntelaar, but my second was the Bulgarian.
I would still like us to add to the squad, to keep things fresh. If we sell/loan out Saha we are still a striker short, Manucho and Welbeck to me need convincing. I would like Aguero, he is class but I wonder what Fergies thoughts are now with Tevez, if we keep he whom shakk not be named and Rooney, do we need to spend £20+ million on a sub?
July 14th, 2008 at 17:47
@RedDevil: You should not be sorry, as your comment was very insightful and others coughgrogcough write comments which are as long and
sometimesless interestingJuly 14th, 2008 at 17:49
@RedDevil: Interesting analysis RedDevil. You know your history. I agree that if he stays to his word, this will be the mildest off season in recent memory when it comes to buying new players. But the Ronaldo situation I feel will have to force Fergie’s hand I afraid. He cannot risk losing him and not replacing him with at least two very skilled players. Aguero alone would do, but lets face it, that’s more of a fantasy pick right now. By the time Ronaldo’s future is decided, there will be very little out there worth signing. We will have Berbatov and what else? Ronaldo’s future needs to be decided now, not in two or three weeks but now. I am 95% sure we have seen the last of him and even if we haven’t, he will definitely be gone in one year. Now is the time he must go because he will be all but useless to us for the next three months anyway. We need his replacement for the start of the season. That schedule is killer and we need our best possible team up front and center. It’s bad enough that the club has dragged it’s ass in the transfer market. What’s far worse is they have dragged their ass in regards to dealing quickly and with finality regarding this Portuguese bastard of a traitor. Sell him and lets get on with the business of defending our titles.
July 14th, 2008 at 17:50
Personally I think that Berbatov would be perfect and I’d much prefer to see him sign than Huntelaar or any of these other so called “goal machines”. We’ve had our recent fill of this type of player in Ruud van Nistelrooy and it must be said; with him on the pitch we always looked very one dimensional and easier to counter.
Berbatov rolls in a little bit of everything. He has the touch and finesse to match anyone but is also tall, a good target man and a solid finisher (Exactly what we were missing last season). He’s the whole package and will link up fluidly with our midfield and support strikers (an essential United quality) whereas these goal scoring whizkids from the dutch league seem to have finishing in their list of talents but not much else. How many players recently have we seen come from scoring goals for fun in the Dutch league, only to dry up in the EPL? Kezman? Kuyt? Alves (although the jury is still out here I guess)…
Berbatov is proven premiership quality and has been my first choice transfer target since we’ve been after a striker. As has been said previously, he is the closest thing to Cantona in terms of his skillset on the pitch, and at United, with 70 odd thousand roaring him on in the Theatre of Dreams he will thrive.
July 14th, 2008 at 17:54
@Fred The Red: I agree with you. In fact I brought that up yesterday. Still, I think it’s us because it just makes sense and I think at the end of the day, the only team that will be able to afford Aguero’s 55 million buyout fee is United provided they get at least 60 million from selling Ronaldo to Madrid. Yabbadabbado and Hleb still don’t add up and Arsenal is very close it seems to nailing down Arshavin. If the Glazer’s were sincere about any money made from a Ronaldo sale being put towards the purchase of players, then Aguero is linked with us.
July 14th, 2008 at 17:54
Sorry grog if you read my previous post as I wanted to underline the sometimes and ended up crossing it!
July 14th, 2008 at 17:57
@colver: Really, he’s broken up with the Goldigger? That actually makes things very interesting. Who knows. Still, if he ends up going to Real, I am almost certain Ramos will be coming to us. Those two will kill each other if they are on the same team. Two ex’s fighting over a goldigging tramp? SWEET!
July 14th, 2008 at 18:02
@AndyCR7: Trust me, if you saw the Grognard, the last thing you would think is baby. 6′5″ tall and close to 300 lbs. I’m a big MOFO and thus I’d probably fit the bill best as the Papa Gator just on the basis of size and hunger. besides, you are right. Nobody, not even Sir Alex or RR wants to take a chomp out of that bastard more than I do. I’m salivating at the thought.
July 14th, 2008 at 18:02
Unfortunatly my belief is that Ronaldo will still be a United player next year. Sometimes you have to make a stance in life and Fergie needs to take it on the chin and sell the little prick. Regardless of how he feels it makes him look, he needs to side with the fans, and we don’t want him at our club anymore.
He has let every single one of us down, and even if he becomes the greatest player in the world @ Madrid, I personally do not care it beyond that now, I will never cheer another goal if he scores for us again, or marvel and his veriety of tricks because he has shown the club,fans and staff absolutly no respect, and it feels like he enjoys it.
July 14th, 2008 at 18:12
@WhiteY: Totally agree with you mate. Losing Ronaldo will be a sad day when (not if) he leaves. I loved that bastard to pieces. He was a real treat but my first loyalty and love is to the team and if he doesn’t honor or respect that team, it’s player, staff and especially those millions of supporters who chant his name, then to Hell with him. Good riddance to bad rubbish!
You and I are in total agreement regarding Huntelaar and Berbatov. No price is too high for a world class striker. I also agree that we need to replace Ronaldo with at least 3 or 4 players when he leaves, unless of course we get Aguero. For me he is a fair one for one trade off. He’s every bit as good as Ronaldo and 3 years younger. Lets pray he ends up with United. That would be a sweet purchase and I don’t think the team will skip a beat with him replacing Ronaldo. In fact, our team game will improve because the most selfish player in our history will be gone. Keep your fingers crossed mate. Cheers!
July 14th, 2008 at 18:17
@Jay: That means nothing. Didn’t Spurs also they that many times about Berbatov? They have made it known that the buy out fee to get Aguero is 55 million feeling no team will pay that much. But supposing a certain team was to get ….say….60 to 70 million from a sale of Ronaldo to Real Madrid, that would supply them with the cash needed to create an even trade off. Ronaldo for Aguero and possibly Ramos in the deal too. I would jump for that deal in a second. Truthfully, it’s up to United if they want Aguero bad enough.
July 14th, 2008 at 18:21
@Nico QB: Regarding post #41 Thanks for the vote of confidence and appreciation there buddy. Don’t worry, I know you were kidding. After all, I’m always interesting.
July 14th, 2008 at 18:26
Red Ranter- Do you play FIFA 08 or PES mate?
July 14th, 2008 at 18:33
@Stephen: Apparently hundreds of United fans showed up for the team’s reserves game the other day and had a prepared protest urging United to get rid of Ronaldo. I think that sends a very strong message to Fergie that the fans will not support Ronaldo staying with the club. Despite what the Glazer’s, Fergie or Gill want, they still do answer to all of us supporters. We are the ones that pay their wages and if we would get up in arms and become vocal like the thousands who protested the Glazer’s takeover, then I think they will have a direct message sent to them that they should think twice about pissing off the majority. Most of us want him gone. It’s that plain and simple. I will not tolerates somebody spitting in my face and then tell me to not wipe it off. That is exactly what Ronaldo is doing to us. But if Fergie likes somebody spitting in his face and then asks, “Can I have some more?” I have to question that logic. There is pride but sometimes pride can turn into embarrassment or humiliation. Do I want the rest of the footballing world laughing at us as this cunt makes fools of Fergie and all of us combined? I think not. Sell him and lets be rid of him once and for all. United made him, he didn’t make United.
July 14th, 2008 at 18:41
Grognard, its an article in the Daily Mail. Apparentely Ronaldo got sick of hearing about Nereida’s past life, and his mother thinks Nereida is just after his money. I hope it is true. Like you I think Nereida is a big factor behind Ronaldo’s recent desire to “fulfill his dream”, the same way Posh was behind Beckham’s attitude problem.
On Ronaldo there was an article in the times, one of the commentators suggested that Ferguson admit that Ronaldo was his slave and chain him up while he played and beat him every time he missed a penalty. Then when his contract expired give him 40 acres of land and a mule. OK it is not politically correct but it tickled me.
July 14th, 2008 at 18:43
http://football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_3817974,00.html
About Etoo going to Kuruvchi, an Uzbek club…
It all started coz their website says so….They also claim to have a few more lined up
http://www.pfc-kuruvchi.com/eng/news_details.asp?newsID=601
Barca have denied it after hours of trying to locate Uzbekistan…
July 14th, 2008 at 18:44
I obviously think it BS.. But man i cant stop laughing especially after reading what they have put up on their webpage
July 14th, 2008 at 19:05
@Grognard: Thats a little hard on Fergie however I do understand your feelings. I believe United want him to hand in a transfer request and they don’t want to take the initiative. If we try and sell him then we wouldn’t be in a position to demand more. I guess this was the club’s ploy. The club’s idea was to incense him and hence you had Fergie’s comments that he would rather let him rot in the stands than accord his wish. And also we need to pay Ronaldo if we are the ones selling him as we are breaking the contract and not him. Which means that he would end up in a win win situation. I don’t think that the bastard deserves anything in life for treating the greatest club in the world like a piece of shit.
July 14th, 2008 at 19:16
I don’t see Aguero leaving Atletico. 55 mil? Really? Just don’t see it. I’d love to see happen, just don’t think it will. Can you imagine the backpeadling Grog would have to do if Fergie dropped 55 mil on someone?
just messin Grognard
July 14th, 2008 at 19:51
@Grognard: I agree, the thought of Ronaldo out and Aguero in really sits well with me, if theres the slightest possibility of this happening then United should test Athleticos resolve with a 40 to 50 million bid, you cant mess about in these situations and its the only lesson I believe we could learn from Real.
July 14th, 2008 at 19:56
HANCOCK!!
July 14th, 2008 at 20:01
@Grognard: True that. But when did fans opinions matter to the Glazers? Ever since they took over they were quite happy to ride roughshod when it came to ticket prices or the automatic cup scheme. In fact, Fergie, a one time raging socialist and a son of the soil Scot, back pedalled so much to back the Glazers and criticise the fickleness of fans. The fact that he’s been so successful and loyal makes him get away with such acts of hypocrisy.
So if they do listen to fans’ opinions on Ronaldo then it’s a bonus as far as I’m concerned.
July 14th, 2008 at 20:07
Imagine Fergie being Ronaldinho here and doing this to Ronaldo when he returns! Would have been awsome!
July 14th, 2008 at 20:10
@colver: Yup, I agree. I think she was a gold digging harlot that messed with his head and now that she apparently is history, he may have a change of heart. But I somehow doubt it. Regardless, he has really done more than burn his bridges.
He’s aerial bombed them into such a state they bloody well have collapsed. I do disagree a bit on Beckham however. I really do not believe there was an attitude problem with Beckham in th dressing room or on the pitch. He was always a consummate professional who played his heart out for the Red Devils. Where his attitude changed was in his private life. Lets face it, he turned into a fashion plate and a wussy boy. But that’s where I disagree with Fergie. What Beckham did in his personal life and with his wife was entirely his own business as it never affected his play. He was after all things are said, married and Fergie needed to respect that even if he didn’t care for Posh. If it had affected his play, then fine, but I never saw his lifestyle nor his marriage affect his desire and ambition on the field. A perfect example of that was how he scored two goals in the epic second half comeback to Real in the second leg of the the Champions League. He scored two big goals and even though we were eliminated, he came off the bench and made a statement of intent and showed his pride and desire. To this day, I feel Fergie’s old fashioned personality and stubbornness forced him into reacting terribly to Becks and of course the rest is history. That does not however excuse Beckham’s comments this past week regarding Ronaldo. Obviously Becks has made a lot of friends in Madrid and loved it there as well as expressing an interest to return there some day in another capacity. That is a slap in Fergie’s face and dare I say it, a bit of revenge in the process.
July 14th, 2008 at 20:18
@Krishnan: I agree with your logic but one thing happens when you wait for a player to hand in his transfer request. Time passes and in the process of waiting more and more quality replacements become unavailable or are signed up by competitors. I for one am not in to procrastination and gamesmanship when it comes to buying and selling players. Too much of that kind of bullshit happens in my opinion. Just state your asking price or the price you are willing to pay and express tot he team that this will be the one and only offer and be done with it. If Real wants him badly enough, they will pay. But by doing nothing and by waiting for him to actually get an operation and be ruled out for three months and not four weeks like it was assumed, you automatically reduce his selling price. Had they sold him right after the EUROS, they may have gotten the full price. Waiting for him to demand a transfer in order to save money is a risk and it could backfire in their faces. We’ll have to wait and see. And I’m so damned tired of waiting.
July 14th, 2008 at 20:21
@Brian Lomax: I see what your saying Brian but really, the only way it’s possible is if they get the maximum for Ronaldo. And then, the Glazer’s have to keep their grubby paws of the cash too. It’s far fetched but who really knows. Even the Grognard can occasionally make a mistake. Scratch that last comment. I never said that. Imagine that!
July 14th, 2008 at 20:25
@Fred The Red: I totally agree with you 100%. You don’t wait for the cash in a Ronaldo sale, you just put in a bid right now for 40 to 45 million and you wait to see the response. Then if by chance the wheels start to roll and they accept one of our offers, you buy him (even if you have to borrow the money) and then pay off the debt when Ronaldo is finally sold. You do not wait for the Ronaldo situation to be resolved. It’s madness and total folly. Procrastination is for losers. One has to be aggressive and proactive in this kind of stuff.
July 14th, 2008 at 20:31
@Red Ranter: Honestly RR I’m not concerned with the response of the Glazer’s. They are in the background on this. It’s Fergie and Gill’s response that concerns me. They must take notice that their supporters do not wish for this player to return. They must weight the loyalty of the fans in this scenario over their wishes for Ronaldo. It’s not wishful thinking. It’s common sense and I really believe the fans will let them know about if they continue to ignore them the way they have. All of a sudden even I who is far removed and living in Canada can now understand the rantings and ravings of those loyal supporters who created FC United. Maybe they do have a point when the club stops listening to it’s supporters completely. But then again, I don’t want a club that knuckles under to the demands of a retarded and completely clueless fan base like the tossers running and supporting Newcastle United. They are united in their total stupidity. Supporters may seem like the inmates of the asylum, but they must be heard once in a while. Especially when decency, loyalty and respect come in to play.
July 14th, 2008 at 20:34
Red Ranter you Whack Job!
Your craziest article ever… But certainly entertaining.
July 14th, 2008 at 21:00
Hamburg coach Martin Jol admits Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov has long wanted a move to Manchester United. Jol said: “I always had a good relationship with Dimitar. But the trouble is he wanted to go to Manchester United. “It was in his mind and I could do nothing about it.”
Well, he may be moody and a bit of a flake but you got to love the fact he is dying to play for us. It’s too bad he has to sulk like baby and act unprofessional for Spurs while he waits for his move to OT. What’s to happen when he is involved in a bit of controversy with us or if Fergie uncermoniously sits him down after a few bad results? Will he be dreaming of Chelsea? We really are living in the age of the cry baby football mercenary aren’t we? It’s a shame. Can’t these players act like men and not spoilt little boys?
July 14th, 2008 at 21:26
It seems that an Uzbekistan team Kuruvchi have signed Samuel eto and it is on their official website. It does not sound like a signing to the team on a permanent basis but a temporary contract, It is crazy on first inspection but must be a big money move as other Barcelona players are being involved in football in Uzbekistan in other ways.
July 14th, 2008 at 21:30
@Grognard: Actually Grognard, I would love to see Ronaldo sold to RM and have it out with a locker room full of ‘teammates’ that dont want him there. Especially Ramos and RVN. I dont care what they say to the press, Cannavaro’s words seem more believable to me. As soon as RVN scores 1 more goal that a 300,000 euro/week earning Ronaldo, you know he’ll ask for the same if not more. Calderon is an idiot to think they will win anything worth shit paying people out the ass. Just for pleasure though, I would love to see how childish it gets over there. Lots of catfights I predict.
Quick question though, does Kun play on the right? I thought he was more of a CF/Striker, no? I second (or third etc…) the fact that he would be a good pickup and Ronaldo should go. The only thing he can do now is dissappoint on the pitch as well.
July 14th, 2008 at 21:38
There have been a few people on the site who have been saying they regret the sale of Rossi, but not many, which is surprising to me, have voiced an opinion on Forlan. So I pose this question, does anybody regret the sale of Forlan and if not why?
July 14th, 2008 at 21:42
Oh and what are your opinions on the possibility of Ronaldo playing for us next season?
July 14th, 2008 at 21:45
ha! http://cr.theoffside.com/files/2008/07/slave4u.jpg
July 14th, 2008 at 22:05
olliey
i firmly believe man utd will keep hold of ronaldo, though i still believe that we should take the money from madrid and run and buy a very good replacement for half the money (cough -aguerro-cough)
he is damaging the reputation of the club if he doesn’t want to be here any longer just let him go to the graveyard.
July 14th, 2008 at 22:57
@Comma: Don’t forget that Calderon also gave his word to Raul (who leads that bloody player Mafia) that he would always be their highest paid player. Ronaldo would basically have that promise crash down on him.
And Aguero is comfortable left right or center. He’s especially comfortable as a second striker moving towards the box.
July 14th, 2008 at 23:02
@olliey: Forlan who?
Seriously, he couldn’t cut it with United. He just wasn’t good enough. Forlan needs a lot of chances to score and he only plays well when there is no pressure on him. Atletico and Villarreal are not exactly Barca, Real or United. On any championship side he would be a bust. He’s just soft emotionally and that is why he failed. Still he has the talent if placed in the right environment for his fragile confidence level.
July 14th, 2008 at 23:11
Grognard I agree Beckham is a different situation entirely. But I think both were influenced by their respective women. Of course the collateral damage Ronaldo has caused is unforgivable and he has lost all hope of being remembered as a United legend.
I want the sob out of United make no mistake. But Im not sure that is the best thing to do. For one if Real think his position at United is untenable and we are forced to sell him they won’t feel the need to meet our valuation and will give us a take it or leave it offer of around 30-40 million that we will be forced to accept. That will represent a victory for Ronaldo and Real, and give the message to our players that if they want out they can force a move.
But the picture is not as gloomy as all that.
He is out for the next three months. That will keep him away from the first team squad and he can talk to the press as much as he likes for all I care. Once the transfer window closes and the move is off, the press will start focusing on the football season.
Ronaldo will come back, see that our team fortified by Berbatov has hardly missed him at all, and due to his huge ego will want to be the star again. He will produce matchwinning performances, score loads of goals and although we will never love him again we’ll recognise his contribution.
The following season we will begin negotiations with Real. They will realise they can’t engineer a move and will have to meet our valuation and we sell him for a good price.
July 14th, 2008 at 23:24
Let me make one thing clear.
I want Ronaldo the PLAYER back in Manchester United.
I want the Ronaldo PERSON that has been since April 2008 sold to Madrid or Hell.
I want Ronaldo the PERSON before April 2008 back in Manchester United.
I wonder when he changed from this to this.
July 14th, 2008 at 23:25
@Fred The Red: But IMO, does Arsenal really qualify as a top club in Europe, no is my answer, therefore i think its between Liverpool and United. As much as i want to see United buy someone, i don’t want Berbatov…he’s worth £20m and not a penny more and i really hope we get Huntelaar instead, i’d be gutted if any other EPL club got him
@Grognard: What is his definition of wanted???? Wanted as in loves the club a la Huntelaar or wanted as in they’re one of the clubs who can give me CL football? I actually doubt his “dying” to play for us, more like “dying” to play CL football.
July 14th, 2008 at 23:29
Aguero’s happy at atletico madrid. Even if we managed to put in a bid which was accepted, i’m not sure he would be interested in leaving as he seems settled. Perhaps the genuine chance to join a big club would get him thinking, but it doesn’t look like it.
July 15th, 2008 at 0:07
is that release clause on Aguero in pounds or Euro because 55 million Euro wouldn’t be too much if we are getting 70m pounds for Ronnie. Aguero is my favourite player outside of United and Celtic and would definately be a great signing
I’m just watching the 50 greatest foreign players in PL history on Sky Two. It was made 2 years ago or something like that. Ronaldo came in at No.40 on the list and they started showing clips from his early days and how he will replace Becks for years to come and it really saddened me. I mean what made this skinny prodigy turn into the prime donna that we see today? At that point I thought that he was United for life and this was the future best player in the world. I remember the Arsenal game in the FA cup final when he stuck to the right and embarassed their defenders time after time. I feel now that that player is dead and has been replaced by a greedy, greasy little prick who doesn’t know what loyalty means
July 15th, 2008 at 1:01
@colver: No Colver they don’t have to knuckle under. They still have a 4 year contract with Ronaldo and if they don’t get what he is worth to them, then I am all for them sitting him and not playing him. Let him rot if all