Former Manchester United and Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he was very close to joining Arsenal back in 2003.
The then 18-year-old star was courted by a number of giants, with Arsene Wenger also being one of the interested managers in poaching him. However, Sir Alex Ferguson was quick to move for his services and secured him in a £12m deal from Sporting CP.
Ronaldo had a successful career at Old Trafford, winning four Premier League titles, a Champions League title and a Ballon d’Or.
Speaking to long-time Arsenal fan Piers Morgan, CR7 jokingly apoligised for not joining the Gunners.
“It’s true. Very close. One stop, incredible. Seriously. I want to apologise, okay.”
“Forgive me for not joining Arsenal.”
“This is what should have happened, it’s what I’ve dreamed of for the last 16 years,” said the presenter.
“It didn’t happen but, Arsenal, I appreciate what they did for me.”
“Especially Arsene Wenger – but you know football and in football you never know.”
Ronaldo is currently plying his trade at Italian Serie A champions Juventus. The Portuguese ace will have majority of limelight as the Bianconeri aim to win the European accolade this season.
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