Ronaldo: I Nearly Joined Arsenal

Cristano Ronaldo has revealed that he came within 'an inch' of joining Arsenal - visiting Arsene Wenger even before Manchester United had made contact.

"I was within an inch of [joining Arsenal]," Ronaldo told France Football. "I have a lot of respect for Arsène Wenger, he is a very clever man."

Wenger has previously pointed out that his club were first in the queue for the Portuguese winger. "I knew about him, yes," the Arsenal manager said earlier this year. "We were very close and we had him here. He was here much earlier."

Ronaldo is happy with his choice - indeed the support given to him by the manager and teammates at United has helped him reach the form of his life - winning the Ballon D'or and FifPro World Player ofthe World Awards.

"I think I have gone down in history. And I am only 23," Ronaldo said. "But I think I have to work even more. I never relax ... I want to do as much next year and even more. Since I arrived at Manchester United, I have always improved year after year. I have always achieved something more season after season ... I want more titles, more awards and another Ballon d'Or."

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