Thursday 7th August 2008
Fergie delighted with Ron decision
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted Cristiano Ronaldo is staying with the Red Devils this season.
The Portugal winger has been linked with Real Madrid throughout the summer, with the Spanish club maintaining their interest even though United repeatedly stressed Ronaldo would not be sold.
But the 23-year-old has now told Portuguese newspaper Publico that he will be staying at Old Trafford for at least the next 12 months.
Key to that dramatic development was a meeting between the player and Ferguson in Portugal just after his country's exit at Euro 2008.
At the time it seemed certain Ronaldo would leave, but Ferguson managed to persuade the Madeira-born player he was better off where he was.
"We cleared the air in Portugal, and the boy spoke to a few of the players as well," said the Scot.
"The thing is, he knows he is happy here - and has always been happy here.
"The fans have to understand it has been a very difficult time for him. He has been offered all this money - when his dad has died a young man and he is looking after his mother, his sister and his brother.
"He has had a troubled time, and you can understand that.
"But once he knew my stance, he settled down - and as far as we are all concerned, the matter is finished. The boy is a United player - that is what is important."
Ferguson knows he will continue to be plagued by questions over Ronaldo and is equally aware the speculation will begin again next summer - given the player's claim he still wants to play for Real one day.
