- Ronaldo joined Man United from Sporting Lisbon in 2003
- He has however admitted he nearly joined Arsenal before the deal falling through
- The Portuguese went on to win three EPL titles and the Champions League with United
Cristiano Ronaldo has finally opened the lid on how close he was to joining Arsenal before Manchester United snapping him up.
Ronaldo revealed he met with former boss Arsene Wenger and was prepared to link up with the Frenchman’s star-studded side.
Wenger already had the likes of Thierry Henry, Robert Pires and Dennis Bergkamp within Arsenal's ranks, but had identified something special in a teenage Ronaldo.
Both Ronaldo and the French tactician even had discussions on a potential deal that would have seen the Portuguese seal a move to the Emirates that summer.
However, a friendly clash between Man United and Sporting Lisbon who Ronaldo was turning out for at the time saw things change instantly.
The forward's spectacular performance is said to have convinced Sir Alex Ferguson to plot a move for the promising winger.
"I met with Arsene Wenger and was about to go to Arsenal. I talked to Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter too but after the friendly against Manchester United, who were already interested," Ronaldo divulged to TVI.
"They became even more interested and they sped up negotiations and signed me," he added.
The 34-year-old went on to drive the Red Devils to three Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2008.
He would later seal a then world-record move to Real Madrid, achieving legendary status.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has since established himself as integral figure at Juventus who he joined last summer from Madrid.
Source: Tuko
