In an exclusive interview with Piers Morgan, Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the London club he almost signed for in the Premier League.
Speaking in a recent interview, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner confirmed long-standing rumours that Arsenal was the London club he almost signed for many years ago before completing a move to Man United in the Premier League.
“It’s true story. I was close to joining Arsenal many years ago… but it’s the past,” Ronaldo admitted.
“Honestly, when I look at Arsenal, I’m always looking at them not like a rival. I like the team, I like them!”
The Portuguese superstar’s comments reignited discussions among fans about what might have been if the then-teenage Ronaldo had worn the red and white of North London instead of Manchester United’s iconic red.
Wenger himself has previously confirmed Arsenal’s strong interest in signing Ronaldo from Sporting Lisbon, only for Manchester United to swoop in after an impressive friendly performance against them in 2003.
Ronaldo’s admiration for Arsenal comes as the club continues to rebuild under Mikel Arteta, competing at the top of the Premier League and playing an attractive style of football that seems to have won over even one of their former rivals.