Ronaldo Regrets Request

Ronaldo revealed he had stayed after the 2006 World Cup only because of the influence of Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Portuguese winger announced he would be ready to leave United for Real Madrid after playing a major part in getting Wayne Rooney sent off in the 2006 World Cup.

However, Sir Alex convinced him to stay at United and though he was target of intense abuse, his football flourished and was elected Player of the Year at the end of the season.

'Sir Alex is a very caring coach and I have a relationship with him that goes far beyond what is usual between a player and the coach,' Ronaldo told the Daily Mirror.

'In fact, I can even say I signed for United because of him and it is down to him that I am still with United in England.

'At the end of that season he was one of the most influential people in my decision.'

He wanted to leave but now says he should have thought about it twice before going public with his desire.

'There are moments in life when we all react on impulse when it would be wiser to stop, take a breath and think in a more rational way,' Ronaldo added.

'That's what I should have done after all that controversy concerning Rooney and me. I acted in haste when I said there were no circumstances under which I would stay.

'Everybody makes mistakes. But the story had a happy ending.

'I assure you the best is yet to come. And the best will be more titles, which are the icing on the cake.'

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