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Graham Fisher
Andrew Aigner-Muehler
LukeS
HardyC.Ronaldo: I'm staying (for now)
August 7th 2008 02:10
Cristiano Ronaldo has ended speculation about his future by confirming that he will remain at Manchester United for "at least one more season". This officially puts an end to the summer's most bitter transfer tug-of-war between fellow football giants Manchester United and their Spanish counterparts, Real Madrid.
The 23-year-old Portugal winger - the scorer of an amazing 42-goals last season - has frequently expressed his desire to play in the white shirt of Real Madrid and that dream almost became a reality this summer when the Spanish giants were reportedly prepared to break the world record transfer fee for the player hotly tipped to win the World Player Of The Year award later this year.
In fact, United have been so furious with Real Madrid’s antics over the summer that they even reported them to FIFA but to no avail.
However, it appears the player and manager Sir Alex Ferguson have reached an agreement - in the best interest of both parties - that will see the 'Portugese Winker' stay at Old Trafford for 2008-09 at the very least.
Speaking to Portuguese paper Publico, Ronaldo said: "Sir Alex Ferguson heard my arguments, I heard his and it was settled that the best thing would be for me to stay.
"I can confirm that, next season, I will play for Manchester United.
"Before rumours emerge saying that I will play against my will, I want to make this clear - whoever says or writes that is lying,
"I will play for Manchester with all my heart and soul. I will fight and honour that shirt with the same commitment and dedication as always."he added.
"I can confirm that, next season, I will play for Manchester United.
"Before rumours emerge saying that I will play against my will, I want to make this clear - whoever says or writes that is lying,
"I will play for Manchester with all my heart and soul. I will fight and honour that shirt with the same commitment and dedication as always."he added.
United manager Ferguson said he was pleased Ronaldo was staying and even said so much as understanding that it's been difficult for Ronaldo because "it's very difficult when a young boy is tempted by all this money".
My take on all this is the club has made some sort of deal with Ronaldo, who is under contract with United until 2012, to remain at Old Trafford for one more season. The deal could potentially mean some minor alterations to Ronaldo's contract - perhaps the addition of a get-out clause (if he doesn't already have one) after 12 months for a set-amount of money with Real Madrid getting first refusal on the player.
What remains to be seen is how Ronaldo will perform this upcoming season and how fans will react towards him. Will people start questioning his desire and professionalism if he happens to enter a form slump?
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