Al Nassr and Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed why his move to Barcelona collapsed.
In a surprising revelation, Cristiano Ronaldo disclosed that he had the opportunity to join Lionel Messi at Barcelona before making his highly publicized move from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United.
Ronaldo went on to have an incredible career at Manchester United and Real Madrid, but the idea of him teaming up with Messi would have been tantalising.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner reflected on his early career, stating,
Cristiano Ronaldo during his time at Manchester United (IMAGO)
“Yes, it was when I was playing at Sporting Lisbon and I had the opportunity to join various clubs, one of which was Barcelona.”
Explaining why the Barcelona deal didn’t materialize, Ronaldo said,
“I remember being with a person from Barcelona who wanted to sign me, but it didn’t happen. Maybe they wanted to bring me in, but it would have been for the following year.” Instead, Manchester United swiftly moved to sign him, and the rest is history.
As Ronaldo put it, “Then, a club like Manchester United came along and signed me immediately. You know how fast everything moves in football.”
Ronaldo and Messi are in a constant battle for the crown of Greatest footballer of all time (GOAT), and it would have been an incredible sight to watch them together.
Lionel Messi during his prime years at Barcelona. (Photo Credit: Imago)
Lionel Messi (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo greet each other prior Riyadh All-Star XI vs Paris Saint-Germain FC at King Fahd Stadium. (Photo Credit: Imago)
Instead, they became ultimate rivals after Ronaldo joined Real Madrid and competed directly against Messi.
Both superstars have numerous individual and team achievements but many say Messi’s World Cup triumph with Argentina has put him ahead of the Portuguese legend.
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