Back to the Manchester United Newsfeed

I wish Cristiano Ronaldo didn't play in Manchester United friendly match, says coach Fernando Santos

Portugal head coach and former Sporting Lisbon manager Fernando Santos has said he regrets playing Cristiano Ronaldo against Manchester United as his outstanding display led to his move to England.

Ronaldo was so impressive in Sporting's 2003 friendly match with United that several members of Sir Alex Ferguson's side instructed the Scot to sign the wonderkid.

United already had been keeping tabs on the 18-year-old but Ferguson ensured the deal was concluded before his side flew back from Portugal and Ronaldo was unveiled just six days later.

Cristiano Ronaldo earned a move to Manchester United following his display for Sporting
Cristiano Ronaldo earned a move to Manchester United following his display for Sporting
Ronaldo, pictured with Nicky Butt, joined United in a u00a312.24million
Manchester United unveiled Ronaldo just six days after their pre-season friendly in Portugal
Manchester United unveiled Ronaldo just six days after their pre-season friendly in Portugal
Ronaldo went onto win nine trophies at United - including the Champions League in 2008
Ronaldo went onto win nine trophies at United - including the Champions League in 2008

Santos, who effectively put Ronaldo in the shop window by playing the winger against United, would do things differently if he could turn back the clock.