Ronaldo Thanks United

In his first major interview since leaving United, Cristiano Ronaldo has said he wants to thank the players, manager and fans of the Reds for his memorable time spent there. Who knows - he may be back!?

"I have a sentimental attachment; I have spent a quarter of my life here. I was boy when I arrived at Manchester United and I'm leaving a man. This club and its fans will always have a place in my heart. I have learnt a lot of life lessons here, and I will never forget all the things I have been taught by so many people."

"I will also miss all the lads; the squad had a great atmosphere. I had a very special relationship with Wayne [Rooney] on and off the field. I have made some good friends with the players and all the staff, but it is time for me to move on now.

"I will miss the boss. Sir Alex has taught me so much on and off the field. I could not have asked for a better mentor. I will always owe him a lot and will never forget him. He made me aware from the start that I would be one of the best players in the world; he gave me that belief.

"When you are 17, you are just concerned about playing first-team football - you don't think about being the best, but Sir Alex gave me the No 7 shirt because he believed I could do it justice. I can never repay the confidence he has shown in me over the years, and all the support he has given me in my journey to become the best.

“When I am at a club, I will always give it my heart and soul. Until the very end I gave Manchester United everything I had on the pitch. It was nice to leave after winning another title, but it would have been perfect to win another European Cup. That final defeat really hurt, so when people say I don’t show loyalty, I just don’t listen."

“I decided I needed a new challenge after winning everything with Manchester, and he (Sir Alex Ferguson) has a price for me that he thinks is fair. I feel it is the right outcome, and have spoken with the boss all the way through this.”