Cristiano Ronaldo is set to play in his first Manchester derby in 12 long years, but he could well have been lining up in sky blue were it not for a couple of interventions form a string of United legends.
The Portuguese star made the decision to leave Juventus in the summer after three seasons in Turin, fearing the deposed Italian champions were ill-equipped to challenge for the UEFA Champions League.
Manchester City appeared to be on the brink of securing a deal to sign the player and were reported to have agreed personal terms with the five-times Ballon d’Or winner.
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Shocked to the core at the prospect of the former Real Madrid star defecting to their local rivals, the likes of Rio Ferdinand were pressed into emergency action and made contact with Ronaldo in order to persuade him to reconsider.
According to the Daily Star, it was the influence of Ronaldo’s mentor and former head coach Sir Alex Ferguson who had the biggest impact on his decision after a phone call which lasted for only 20 seconds.
‘Don’t go to City,’ was the Scot’s simple instruction, which clearly had a huge impact on Ronaldo who sealed a shock, return to Old Trafford where he spent six years during the formative stage of his career.
Man City’s loss has very much been United’s gain, with Ronaldo having scored nine goals in 11 games since his return, including two goals in Tuesday’s Champions League draw against Atalanta.
Ferguson has said little publicly on Ronaldo’s comeback, but did gave a rare interview ahead of the player’s second United debut against Newcastle United back in September.
He told Viaplay: ‘I’m exited like everyone else, there was anticipation all day yesterday and waking up in the morning. I speak for all supporters it’s a great day for Man Utd.
‘A lot of people played their part (in bringing Ronaldo back) and I contributed knowing that really Cristiano wanted to come here and that was important. It worked very well.
‘I wouldn’t say it’s emotional but it’s exciting for me and relief because I couldn’t imagine him playing for Man City, I don’t think anyone could.
‘That’s why we took steps to make sure he came here and the club then followed in very well and I spoke to the Glazers and it was done.’
