Cristiano Ronaldo Reveals He Nearly Joined Barcelona Before Signing for Manchester United: "They Tried to Sign Me"

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he was close to joining FC Barcelona before eventually signing for Manchester United. In an interview with Edu Aguirre, Ronaldo stated, “I could have played for Barça before Manchester United.”

Reflecting on his time at Sporting CP, he elaborated, “I was at Sporting, they tried to sign me. They wanted me but one year after…” He then added, “Then Manchester United appeared.”

During his spell at Sporting CP, Ronaldo attracted interest from several top European clubs. Notably, former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger met with him in November 2002 to discuss a potential transfer. Juventus also showed interest, with scout Gianni Di Marzio recommending Ronaldo to club executive Luciano Moggi, who prepared a €2.5 million offer that included Marcelo Salas. However, “the deal fell through when Salas declined the move.” (en.wikipedia.org)

Manchester United’s pursuit of Ronaldo intensified after Sporting CP’s “3–1 victory over United” during the inauguration of the Estádio José Alvalade on 6 August 2003. Initially, United planned to sign Ronaldo and loan him back to Sporting, but after witnessing his performance, “United’s players urged Ferguson to sign him immediately.” Ultimately, the club secured his transfer for “£12.24 million,” with Sir Alex Ferguson describing him as “one of the most exciting young players” he had ever seen. (en.wikipedia.org)