MANCHESTER: Cristiano Ronaldo has posted an emotional message to Manchester United supporters around the world, after his transfer back to Old Trafford from Juventus on a two-year contract was officially completed Tuesday.
United have secured the five-time Ballon d’Or winner for a initial fee of €15 million that could rise to €23 million ($27 million), AFP reports, quoting figures released by Juventus.
The 36-year-old made his name on the world stage in six years at United between 2003 and 2009 before moving to Real Madrid for a then world record transfer fee of £80 million. Ronaldo scored 118 goals in 292 games during his first spell at United, winning his first Ballon d’Or and Champions League title, as well as three Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups.
In a lengthy and passionate Instagram post, sent to his 336 million followers, the Portuguese superstar looks forward to reuniting with our fans and bringing even more success to the club.
Ronaldo also signs off with an amazing nod to his former manager and mentor, Alex Ferguson.
“Everyone who knows me, knows about my never ending love for Manchester United,” writes Ronaldo. “The years I spent in this club were absolutely amazing and the path we’ve made together is written in gold letters in the history of this great and amazing institution.
“I can’t even start to explain my feelings right now, as I see my return to Old Trafford announced worldwide. It’s like a dream come true, after all the times that I went back to play against Man United, and even as an opponent, to have always felt such love and respect from the supporters in the stands. This is absolutely 100 per cent the stuff that dreams are made of!
“My first domestic League, my first Cup, my first call to the Portuguese National team, my first Champions League, my first Golden Boot and my first Ballon d’Or, they were all born from this special connection between me and the Red Devils. History has been written in the past and history will be written once again! You have my word!
“I’m right here!
“I’m back where I belong!
“Let’s make it happen once again!
“PS – Sir Alex, this one is for you…”
