21 years ago, on this day: Cristiano Ronaldo joined Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United

Ronaldo had signed for the Red Devils in 2003.

On this day, 21 years ago, Manchester United’s then-manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, signed Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo went on to become one of the greatest players of all time in football history. 

At United, he developed into a complete player. When the world started to recognise his talent, the forward attracted many top suitors. One of them was Real Madrid. They made one of the highest bids in transfer history at that time to sign Ronaldo. 

In Madrid, Ronaldo further reinforced his status as one of the greatest players in football history. But much credit should go to Sir Alex Ferguson, who identified Ronaldo during his time at Sporting Lisbon.

However, the Portuguese was already a hot property in Lisbon. Many clubs such as Madrid and Arsenal were interested in signing the winger. At Old Trafford, Alex Ferguson was told by Carlos Queiroz, the Portuguese assistant manager of Alex Ferguson, to scout the player in Lisbon. 

Queiroz then told Ferguson to act quickly before any other club scooped him away, as Ronaldo was growing into a hot prodigy then. Sir Alex then told United to make a move for Ronaldo. But Sporting Lisbon wanted to keep the forward for two more years.

Moreover, United were firmly convinced by the then-18-year-old when he played against them in a friendly match. The Portuguese winger troubled United’s defence and made them look like average players. 

After paying £12.24 million for the player’s services, United were able to sign him. The forward made his debut against Bolton. His performance captivated the crowd, promising them a sight that would keep them glued for years to come.

Ronaldo continued to make history at United, winning the 2008 Ballon d’Or and the first-ever Champions League of his career at United in the same season. His performance tempted Real Madrid to shell out a record transfer fee. They signed him in 2009. 

Ronaldo’s ascendance was quick at Real. He instantly became the most exciting player in LaLiga. The Portuguese phenom further cemented his legacy by winning four more Champions Leagues and four Ballon d’Or. 

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