Three Words from Ferguson Determined Ronaldo's Fate... Secrets Unfold

Media reports have revealed the role played by Alex Ferguson, the former Manchester United manager, in the transfer of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo to the "Red Devils" instead of Manchester City. The British newspaper "Daily Star" stated that a call consisting of "three words" sealed Ronaldo's fate after his departure from Juventus. The "Don" decided to leave "The Old Lady" about a week before the transfer period ended, with Manchester City becoming interested. Reports at that time indicated that the 36-year-old Portuguese player was on the verge of joining "City." These ongoing reports prompted Ferguson to personally call Ronaldo and tell him, verbatim, "Don't join City," before ending the call immediately. The "iconic figure's" call from Manchester United had a significant impact on Ronaldo's decision. Ronaldo had left Old Trafford in 2009 for a then world-record fee of £80 million to join Real Madrid.