Cristiano Ronaldo Zone - Goals, news, bio and more

Cristiano played his game number 100 with Real Madrid

2011-10-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Gonzalo Higuain was the absolute star of the 4-1 win over Betis, but this game was important for Cristiano Ronaldo for another reason: it was his game 100 with Real Madrid.

The victory was a great result and even when Ronaldo could not score, he assisted Higuain twice. Kaka brilliantly netted the other goal for Real Madrid and Jorge Molina netted the honour goal for Betis.

Mourinho's team holds the second place of the Spanish League with 16 points, just one behind Barcelona.

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Messi was the hero in Barça's 2-0 win

2011-04-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

Barcelona has more than one foot in the Champions League final at Wembley. Lio Messi scored two superb goals against Real Madrid and helped his team get a 0-2 win in the third "clasico" of the month.

Now Mourinho's team must go to the Camp Nou and get at least a 3-0 to win the leg. The Portuguese coach said it is "obviously not hard. It's impossible". Mou also complained about the referee and the red card for Pepe.

Cristiano Ronaldo had just a regular performance, and he could not lead his team to victory. But it's also fair to mention that Adebayor, Di María and the other strikers didn't have a good game either.

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: acid words between Guardiola and Mourinho

2011-04-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

Guardiola and his squad are already in Madrid to face their classic rival. This Real Madrid - Barcelona duel will be the third "clasico" in this month, and the winner will be closer to the Champions League semifinal.

Yesterday we could hear the ironic words of Jose Mourinho, who said that "Guardiola is part of a group of coaches that criticizes good referees, a group with only one person: him".

Today, Josep Guardiola blasted against the Portuguese coach: "In this room he is the f* boss and the smartest one. He has already won his particular 'Champions' off the pitch. But tomorrow we will face on the pitch, where we will try to play real football."

As for the main players in each team, Cristiano Ronaldo, Özil and Di María will be starters in Real Madrid. Barcelona will have Messi, Xavi and Puyol, but Iniesta will miss the match.

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Ready to win Copa del Rey

2011-04-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo and the rest of Real Madrid team is already in the city of Valencia. After training at the Mestalla Stadium, they are ready to face Barcelona for the second time in four days.

The Copa del Rey will have a new champion tomorrow, and this will be one of the most interesting finals in many years. Both Guardiola and Mourinho have admitted that anything could happen. Their most important stars - Messi and Ronaldo - will be vital to get the triumph.

Only a few hours before the game, fans are already arriving at the stadium, and many reporters from all around the world are waiting to see yet another "clasico".

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Ronaldo scores equalizer in 1-1 draw

2011-04-17T00:53:00.000-07:00

Morale boost for Real Madrid to face the rest of the derbies. Cristiano Ronald reminded Barcelona that Messi was not the only one of his kind on the field. The Portuguese footballer scored Madrid's equalizer with a penalty shoot, and the game finished with a 1-1 draw.

Lio Messi scored the opener with another penalty in minute 53, after a clear foul of Albiol against David Villa. And ten minutes before the end, Cristiano Ronaldo scored the 1-1 for Madrid.

The Spanish League is almost decided after this result. Guardiola's side are just a few inches away from the title, and is virtually impossible for Madrid to steal the crown from them. But the next three "clasicos" are even more important: The Copa del Rey Final and the Champions League semis. We will have plenty of excitement in the next 18 days.

Real Madrid and Barcelona likely to meet in the semifinals of the Champions League

2011-04-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

This UEFA Champions League editions has a strong Spanish flavour. First, Real Madrid defeated Tottenham Hotspurs 4-0 - Cristiano Ronaldo's goal included - and the next day, Barcelona defeated Shakhtar 1-5 in Ukraine.

As we know, Adebayor scored a double and was the hero in their last game at the Santiago Bernabeu. The other goals were netted by Di Maria and Ronaldo.

Since it's almost impossible to comeback from a four-goal difference, it's very likely that the most populars clubs of Spain will face in the semis.

Paulo Bento: Messi-Ronaldo rivalry is unique in football history

2011-02-15T07:49:00.000-08:00

Portuguese coach Paulo Bento assured that the duel between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo - a controversy about who is the best footballer in the world - is a unique situation in football history.

"I have seen excellent footballer, but I think that never before two superb players were at the peak of their careers for so long, at the same time" Bento said.

The coach praised Cristiano Ronaldo's influence in Portugal National Team. "He has an amazing actitude, our nation must be proud to have a footballer like him" he assured.

Ronaldo is convinced that they can beat Barcelona in final of Copa del Rey

2011-02-11T14:22:00.000-08:00

In an interesting interview in a Spanish TV channel, Cristiano Ronaldo assured that Real Madrid will beat Barcelona in the final match of the "Copa del Rey". The talented striker considers that "Barça is really stron as a team, but so we are. We will see who is the best in the final. If we begin the match thinking that we can't win, then we should stay at home and not play at all".

The Portuguese star also talked about the fouls he suffer in every game. "We are all proffesional players and I never think that other footballer foul me with evil intention."

Finally, the popular CR7 said he is happy playing in the Spanish League. "I'm so happy in Spain. For the people, the football style, the big club I'm playing for... everything".

Adebayor talks about Cristiano Ronaldo

2011-02-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

Emmanuel Adebayor assured that he is not a problematic footballer. He also stated that is an honor to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.

It had been a month since the last time a Real Madrid player spoke in a press conference. And it was Adebayor, the new striker in Madrid, the one to make the difference. He was eager to talk about his first days at Real Madrid and the adaptation process.

"Actually, I played against some of the players in this squad before. IT's really easy for me to be here, adapting to the lifestyle in Spain. I have no problems with communication because most players speak english."

He also mentioned that in his opinion, Cristiano Ronaldo receives too many fouls from the rivals. "He is a strong player who works in the gym everyday, which makes him a good player. So, everybody wants to stop him at any cost."

Happy Birthday Cristiano Ronaldo!

2011-02-04T15:23:00.000-08:00

On February 5th Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates yet another birthday, at the peak of his career. The portuguese player turns 26 tomorrow and we all want to send him the best wishes in his day.

With 3 Premier League titles, 1 FA Cup crown, 1 Champions Leaguee, 1 FIFA Club World Club and 1 Ballon d'Or, among many other trophies, Ronaldo can feel happy now. But at his young age, he can earn a lot more. Happy Birthday!

Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Messi: the most interesting duel of the Argentina-Portugal match

2011-02-04T14:07:00.000-08:00

Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi battle everyweek in the Spanish League and fans in Spain always talk about who is the best footballer of the World. But this time, this rivalry will have a different scenario: Argentina will face Portugal in Geneva, Switzerland.

Coach Paulo Bento assured that Ronaldo will be part of the starting team. As we know, Portugal is preparing to qualify for the upcoming UEFA EURO 2012 in Poland and Ukraine.

The last time Ronaldo and Messi met on a football pitch, Barcelona got a stunning 5-0 win over Real Madrid. Next week's friendly will certainly be a revenge for Cristiano.

Real Madrid qualified for the quarterfinals of the Spanish League despite loss to Levante

2011-01-08T23:25:00.000-08:00

Levante, a humble team with no international superstars, managed to get a surprising win over powerful Real Madrid. But this 2-0 victory was not enough to reach the next stage. Despite the bad result for Mourinho, his team qualified thanks to their previous victory of 8-0. Levante's goals were scored by Xisco and Sergio, in the last minutes of the match.

Mourinho's squad frontmen were Benzema and Canales, since this was the opportunity for most usual substitutes to show their quality. It's clear that they didn't take advantage of this opportunity. Ronaldo was not part of the starting team, however, Kaka did play in the second part.

Real Madrid will play against Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals oh the Spanish Cup, as their 1-1 draw at Espanyol was enough to progress 2-1 on aggregate.

Real Madrid got a last-minute tie in Milan

2010-11-03T22:57:00.000-07:00

AC Milan needed a victory to remain alive and with chances in this competition. But this Real Madrid is extremely talented and lucky. Combining those two qualities, it was impossible to defeat Mourinho's side and the game at the San Siro Stadium finished with a 2-2 draw.

Argentinian striker Gonzalo Higuain scored the opener in the last minute of the first half. However, the veteran Filippo Inzaghi netted a double to upset Real Madrid. But when the game was almost over, the young Pedro Leon scored a nice goal to keep Mourinho unbeaten this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo had an acceptable performance tonight, and even though it was not a perfect game for him, his contribution on the right wing was important for the team.

Real Madrid has secured a place in the next stage thanks to Ajax's defeat, but this team can cleaerly reach the final of this Champions League edition by themselves.

Time to conquer Milan

2010-11-02T22:18:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid arrived to Milan with high morale and big chances of winning the match against AC Milan for the Champions League. The Spanish club never won an official game at this stadium before.

However, the current squad which includes Ronaldo at the peak of his career, is plenty of talent and experience to beat any team in the World. And Allegri's side has not shown the potencial to beat Madrid this season.

Mourinho said that he feels confortable playing in this city, and he actually knows most of AC Milan players, so his team is a strong favorite to win the match and finish as the leader of their group.

Ronaldo: 10 goals in 8 games in the best season kick-off of his career

2010-10-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo's stats at the beginning of the domestic season are impressive. 10 goals in eight games are too much for Lionel Messi this tiem. With the average of 1,25 goals per game, he could even score more than Hugo Sanchez, who set the record of 38 goals at the 88-89 season.

So far, Ronaldo has doubled Messi's effectiveness. In fact, Lio netted two in the last game and has four goals at the Champions League, but his numbers pale in front of Ronaldo's this season.

Ronaldo scores 4 goals to crush Racing Santander

2010-10-24T04:57:00.000-07:00

Mourinho's Madrid seems to be unstoppable and Cristiano Ronaldo is the perfect proof of this. The Portuguese star scored four goals in the 6-1 win over Racing Santander.

Almost all his goals came after superb combinations with Mesut Ozil. Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain scored the opener and the German Ozil netted the last one for Madrid.

The white teams is no longer doubtful and their perfect system to play each game makes them strong favorites to win everything this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored opener in 2-0 win over AC Milan

2010-10-19T17:05:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid faced their Champions League match against AC Milan with all the weapons available - and with a lot of conviction as well. That's why the first goal happened just thirteen minutes after the kick-off, with a brilliant free-kick shot by Cristiano Ronaldo.

The second goal was scored by German Mesut Ozil just two minutes after that, and that was the end of the game for the Italians, who desperately tried to attack Madrid, with no good results.

Indeed, despite Massimiliano Allegri was able to use Ibrahimovic, Ronaldinho, Seedorf and Pato, the defensive line of Mourinho's was brilliant tonight. And after the game, the Portuguese coach expressed his satisfaction with the result and their performance.

Now Real Madrid is in the top spot of Group G.

Closer to Euro 2012: Cristiano Ronaldo scored opener in 3-2 victory of Portugal over Iceland

2010-10-12T15:30:00.001-07:00

Portugal is back on the track. The 3-2 win over Iceland increases their chances to be present at the Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine. The winner goals were scored by Cristiano Ronaldo (3'), Raúl Meireles (27') and Hélder Postiga (72').

Ronaldo's goal was a free-kick masterpiece that helped Portugal gain morale and control the match. Iceland struggled to get at least a draw, but this time it was not enough.

Paulo Bento's side is now in second place of Group H, just two points behind Norway and one ahead of Denmark, both of whom have a match in hand.

Euro 2012: Portugal confident to beat Iceland

2010-10-11T13:11:00.000-07:00

Portugal will face Iceland for the Euro qualifiers, and the main goals for this match are to win three points and prove that Paulo Bento has brougth a new motivation for the Portuguese team.

The most powerful Portuguese weapons are Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United's Nani. Those are enough arguments to be confident against Iceland and remain close to Norway, the Group H leaders.

Iceland are not having a good campaign under the direction of Olafur Johannesson, and remain in the last position of their group with no points at all.

Cristiano Ronaldo: I feel better and ready to lead Portugal to the Euro 2011

2010-10-10T23:32:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid's striker Cristiano Ronaldo is aware that his last two goals scored in the Spanish League prove that he is again the player that everyone admired in Manchester United.

"Everyday I feel better and better, not only with my physical shape but also mentally. Scoring goals always help" said Ronaldo during a training session with the Portugal National Team.

As we know, Portugal is in the road to the Euro 2011, and Ronaldo is a key player for Paulo Bento, the Portuguese coach.

Cristiano Ronaldo: "Messi is among the best players in history"

2010-04-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo praised the talent of Lionel Messi, the man who was recently his rival for the title of "best player in the world". And now that is clear that the Argentinian footballer is the number one, Ronaldo had no problems admitting it: "he is among the best players now and overall".

"I'm bigger than Messi... I'm taller!" Ronaldo joked. Then he added: "He is just having an outstanding seasons. He is among the best footballers overall".

Asked about the Spanish derby against Barcelona, the star of Real Madrid said that it will not be a duel between him and Messi. "Many people talk about it like a duel, but it's not. The whole team is important to achieve results. I hope Messi can keep scoring goals, but not against us."

Karina Bacchi might be Ronaldo's new girlfriend

2010-03-29T13:42:00.001-07:00

Italian newspapers assure that Cristiano Ronaldo has a new girlfriend: a Brazilian model and actress called Karina Bacchi, 34 years old.

According to the sources, they couple have known each other since 2007, and now a strong relationship has started.

The Real Madrid footballer has said nothing about it, but many news sources in Italy assure the model - like no other exgirlfriend - has helped Ronaldo think about a steady relationship.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Higuain crush Getafe and help Real Madrid

2010-03-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid was flawless against Getafe at the Alfonso Perez Coliseum. A stunning 4-2 victory helped Cristiano Ronaldo's team to reach the pole position of the Spanish League.

Ronaldo and fellow striker Gonzalo Higuain scored twice each, and proved to be the most effective offensive pair in Europe. The faster goal - as usual - was netted by the Portuguese star, at the 13th minute.

Before the first half was over, Madrid was already 4 goals ahead. The second part was just a boring formality, with Pellegrini's team thinking in the next clash against Atletico.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have both 18 points more than the third place in La Liga, so the battle for the crown remains between this two classic rivals.

Messi's outstanding performances motivates Cristiano Ronaldo

2010-03-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

The comparison between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo about who is the best in the world is not a polemic issue anymore. The argentinian footballer is playing so good - 8 goals in three games - that everybody agrees he is the king nowadays. But according to Ronaldo, that motivates him even more.

A spanish newspaper announces that it's "Cristiano's turn" to show his huge talent in the clahs against Getafe, for the Spanish League. "The challenge of being better than him motivates me even more" claims Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo's statistics at Real Madrid are pretty good lately: 22 goals in 24 games: almost one goal per match. But he admits that the impact of Messi's performances are just contundent.

Higuain and Ronaldo are the top scorers for Real Madrid

2010-03-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo have scored twenty two goals each to help Real Madrid reach the second place of the Spanish League. And this internal competition the be the top scorer is healthy for the club.

Higuain scored against Sporting last weekeng and tied with Ronaldo as the top striker. By the way, Madrid got their ninth victory in the domestic tournament.

"I want to be the 'Pichichi' now" says Higuain. If the Argentinian keeps his average performance (20 goals in 21 games) he will finish this season with 36. A superb mark, only eclipsed by the spectacular level that Lionel Messi is showing in Barcelona.

Police officers deny rumours of Cristiano Ronaldo's traffic incidents

2010-03-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

Many rumours in Spain assure that Cristiano Ronaldo likes to ignore traffic lights and speed limits, and police officers don't punish him when they recognize the famous player. Today, some officers talk to the press to say that those reports are false.

An international website says that the Portuguese footballer, late for training, was stopped by traffic officers for speeding where he knocked over several traffic lights in his way to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

According to that report, policemen stopped him but let him go after taking some photos with the player.

The central police station of Madrid rapidly stated that this report is false, and there was never an incident involving Cristiano Ronaldo.

Match against Racing Santander may be the last one without Cristiano Ronaldo

2009-11-19T08:43:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid will battle Racing Santander on Saturday and some media in Spain report that this could be the last game that Cristiano Ronaldo will miss in his recovery process.

Even when it was made public that his injuried ankle was not improving, Ronaldo might return to full training on Friday, so the talented footbalelr is unlikely to be available before Wednesday's Champions League game against FC Zurich.

After some medical tests, Professor Niek van Dijk - the surgeon who operated on Ronaldo's right ankle in the summer of 2008 - was also consulted by the troubled ankle in Amsterdam a fortnight ago. However, the club did not announce when Cristiano will be fit for his return.

Madrid has a week full of chances to recover morale and points, after being eliminated from the "Copa del Rey" by a third-division team.

Portugal defeated Bosnia and secured a place in South Africa 2010

2009-11-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

Portugal could not use Cristiano Ronaldo but their 0-1 win over Bosnia was enough to get the ticekt to South Africa 2010. With Real Madrid's super star sidelined by injury, credit for reaching a third consecutive World Cup went to gutsy performances by a Portuguese squad that used even some Brazilian-born footballers.

The talented midfielders Tiago and Meireles had an important role in this victory. In fact, Meireles was the author of the winning goal, scoring at the 55 minute after a superb move by Tiago and Nani.

Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz showed his satisfaction after the games: "Our team spirit has been fantastic, brilliant. This win brought vindication after months of criticism and unflattering comparisons. This was the dream of a lifetime".

Raul Meireles had the time of his life: "I am really satisfied with the goal, but I think the most important thing was our national team and the attitude we showed on a very difficult field, the state of the pitch was terrible and our team was able to overcome that".

Latest News: Ronaldo's ankle not improving

2009-11-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

The latest announcement regarding Cristiano Ronaldo's ankle are bad news for millions of Real Madrid fans and for everybody in Portugal. The player may be three months out of activity if he is forced to have another operation on his injured ankle. His club stated that ronaldo has not showed enough improvement to return for this weekend game.

The official announcement says that it's not clear if Cristiano Ronaldo requires surgery on his troublesome ankle, but he is not fit for a return to first team action.

Teammate Iker Casillas mentioned that Cristiano is "concerned" about his ankle. "He thought he would recover this week, and play some minutes against Atletico. But that will not happen."

We must consider that it is the same ankle that needed an operation in the summer of 2008 At that moment, Cristiano was at the Old Trafford.

Pellegrini's team has won every game they played with Cristiano in the squad, but lost against lowly Alcorcón in the Cup and AC Milan at home in the Champions League in his absence.

Cristiano Ronaldo's return could take place against Atletico Madrid

2009-11-04T12:16:00.001-08:00

Doctors say that Cristiano Ronaldo has real chances to return to the first team against Atletico Madrid.

The Portuguese super player was at the Sanitas La Moreja clinic today to go under an MRI scan on his injured ankle, and the initial prognosis is positive. It has also been revealed that Cristiano has been performing gym excercises and swimming at Real Madrid's training base at Valdebebas for seven and a half hours a day in an effort to recover his fitness as soon as possible.

As we know, his injury was picked up during Madrid's Champions League match against Olympique Marseille at the end of September, and then aggravated while he was on international duty with Portugal.

After this announcement, Madrid's coach Manuel Pellegrini will continue to monitor Ronaldo's progress closely. However, it's important to mention that he will not risk him on Saturday evening against Atletico Madrid if Ronaldo is not completely recovered and out of risk.

Real Madrid got a 1-1 with AC Milan

2009-11-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

Critiano Ronaldo is still out of Real Madrid firts squad due to his serious injury, but life goes on for his team. After the disaster against Alcorcón, Pellegrini's side needed to recover. And this Champions League game against Ronaldinho's AC Milan was not exactly the easiest way to do it.

But Madrid got a remarkable 1-1 at the San Siro Stadium, which is a good result considering the strong squad that Milan used on the field. Karim Benzema scored for the spaniards at the minute 29 and Ronnie netted the equalizer with a penalty shot on 39'.

Now Pellegrini got some more credit to stay as the coach of the galactic team. We all hope that with the return of Cristiano and Ruud Van Nistelrooy, the team will be even stronger and reach the goals settled for this season.

Barcelona wins the Champions League and frustrates Ronaldo's dream

2009-05-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

This time the crown was not meant to be earned by United. With a 2-0 triumph at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Wednesday, Barcelona have now won their third UEFA Champions League Championship, and have become the first Spanish team to win La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League all in the same season, which allowed Barcelona to become the first Spanish team to win the treble, and the first team since the Red Devils in 1999 to accomplish this feat in Europe.

To start off the match, rookie manager Josep Guardiola had to replace the suspended defenders Daniel Alves and Eric Abidal, so he replaced them with Sylvinho and Carles Puyol. He also started both Thierry Henry and Stamford Bridge hero Andrés Iniesta after they were declared fit after a training session on Monday.

After all of the pregame festivities were finished, the match begun and Man Utd sprinted out of the gate as they have done in most of their matches this season, and nearly scored on a Cristiano Ronaldo free kick in the second minute, but keeper Victor Valdes was equal to the challenge and was able to stop it.

After several more United chances, Barcelona got the ball into the United zone as Iniesta rushed towards the goal, and passed the ball off to Samuel Eto'o, who then collapsed onto the net and shot the ball off of Edwin Van de Sar and into the back of the net which shocked Man Utd, and gave Barcelona a 1-0 lead in the tenth minute.

After this goal, Barcelona completely dominated the rest of the first half as they prevented United from starting any attack, and Park Ji-Sung, Ryan Giggs and Anderson all appeared to disappear for United, which made a comeback even less likely.

However, Barcelon continued to attack, but the United defense came to the rescue multiple times as they denied Barcelona from getting another goal.

As the second half begun, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson substituted Anderson for Carlos Tevez to try to inspire the offense, and for the first five minutes, it appeared to be working but Barcelona came back and after Iniesta was fouled just outside of the penalty box in the 62nd minute. Afterwards, Xavi had a chance to give Barcelona a 2-0 lead, but his shot hit the outside of the post on his right, keeping the match 1-0 and allowing Man Utd to still have a chance in the match.

But the chance of repeating as European champions vanished for Man Utd in the 70th minute as Xavi nailed a cross that found the head of Lionel Messi as the 21-year-old Argentinian international superstar scored his 38th goal of the season and gave Barcelona a cushion as they now held a 2-0 lead.

For the last 20 minutes, Man Utd couldn't regain possession against Barcelona and with the final whistle in stoppage time, Barcelona won their second Champions League final in the last four seasons and finally accomplished their dream of a treble.

Ancelotti impressed by Ronaldo and Manchester United's Champions League performance

2009-02-25T23:44:00.000-08:00

AC Milan coach had interesting words after the 0-0 draw between Inter and Manchester United. Carlo Ancelotti admitted that he was impressed with what he saw in the game between the Nerazzurri and Manchester United.

"Inter can take courage from the draw,” Ancelotti stated to the press. “I watched a beautiful match, dominated by the English in the first half and Inter in the second period."

He also said that Cristiano Ronaldo always shows a World Class performance.

However, Ancelotti still was disappointed with the result of the recent Milan derby, in which Inter were 2-1 winners. In that fixture Nerazzurri forward Adriano opened the scoring with a controversial goal but the Rossoneri netted a goal against Cagliari on Sunday in similar circumstances.

"My thoughts remain the same, Adriano netted with his arm," complained the ex-Parma tactician.

Indeed, Milan are currently preparing for their second-leg encounter against Werder Bremen in the UEFA Cup on Thursday. The first-leg ended in a 1-1 draw.

Ronaldo had a good performance in his friend Wayne Rooney’s return

2009-02-18T22:10:00.000-08:00

The strong and effective Wayne Rooney came off the bench to score with his first touch of the game to defeat Fulham at Old Trafford last night and tighten Manchester United's grip on the Premier League title.

Rooney, in his first action in over a month, added his 63rd-minute strike to first-half efforts from Paul Scholes and Dimitar Berbatov to send United five points clear of Liverpool in the title race.

We must consider that while Rooney started on the bench, there was no place in the squad for Ryan Giggs. It is a measure of the strength Alex Ferguson has at his disposal that he could give Giggs the night off as Edwin van der Sar looked to complete a 14th consecutive clean sheet for the title favourites.

In the other hand, Fulham were severely stretched, without star striker Andrew Johnson, leaving Bobby Zamora as the lone frontman for a side who have not won away from Craven Cottage all season.

In the early action, the talented Cristiano Ronaldo drove a right-wing cross into the Stretford End before footballer-of-the-year favourite Nemanja Vidic left Zoltan Gera in a heap with a firm aerial challenge. John O'Shea let fly when Ronaldo's lobbed pass invited him to shoot inside the area, and in despite of that, the Waterford man's effort was off target.

Indeed, John Pantsil was on hand to scramble away as Scholes tried to pick out Rio Ferdinand with a crossfield pass into the box. The reprieve was only brief for Fulham as Carrick picked out Scholes on the edge of the area with a precise corner 12 minutes in.

Paul Scholes let fly with a fierce volley which, although powerful, Mark Schwarzer seemed to have covered, only for the ball to squirm away into the opposite corner.

It’s amazing to notice that the Red team are not the kind of side that needs such assistance and Carrick nearly made it two with a low shot that the Australian this time managed to keep out.

Fulham were pushing forward when they could and Zamora was not too far away with a glancing header as he rose to meet Pantsil's cross.

Normally one of the most reliable goalkeepers, Schwarzer appeared unnerved by Pantsil's presence and dropped a Ronaldo cross that bounced in front of him. Dimitar Berbatov was onto it in a flash and in despite of that, Aaron Hughes was on hand to clear the Bulgarian's shot off the line.

In fact, Schwarzer shovelled a Ronaldo thunderbolt around the post, then the Portugal superstar misdirected a pass that should have set up Park.

The popular “Apache” Tevez thought he had scored after skipping onto Berbatov's through ball before sliding his shot under Schwarzer and in despite of that, an offside flag had been correctly raised against him. Berbatov also looked marginally offside as he rose to meet Park's cross.

This time it was not given and Schwarzer needed to make a fingertip save.

Park was booked when he clipped Gera from behind, sending the Hungarian sprawling, although Fulham could make nothing of the free-kick and quickly found themselves two adrift. O'Shea deserved plenty of credit for continuing his run into the box after playing a pass to Carrick. The pass eventually came from Scholes, O'Shea stretching out to toe the ball into Berbatov's path.

Schwarzer and Hughes again should have done better as they closed in and in despite of that, Berbatov had too much strength and he tapped home.

Having scored his 12th goal of the season, the former Tottenham man was inches away from a 13th shortly afterwards as he pushed Tevez's slide-rule pass just wide.

Indeed, Cristiano Ronaldo thought he should have had a penalty when he was wrestled to the ground by Brede Hangeland and in despite of that, referee Andre Marriner thought otherwise. Schwarzer failed to hold another stinging Scholes shot and in despite of that, he managed to smother before Park could pounce, then Berbatov had his header from Ronaldo's free-kick disallowed just before the break.

Fergie’s team continued to press after the break before Pantsil was booked for chopping down Ronaldo close to the corner flag. The victoryger's initial effort was blocked for a corner which was planted onto Vidic's head and in despite of that, the Serbian powered over.

Ronaldo screwed a long-range shot well wide before Rooney made his entrance on the hour mark, replacing Berbatov.

At the next opportunity, O'Shea was taken off, having picked up a knock, although the introduction of Jonny Evans was a surprise as orthodox right-back Rafael remained on the bench.

Not that Fulham had any chance to take advantage, as Park's low cross-shot arrived at the far post where Rooney tapped home with his first touch of the clash.

Happy Birthday to Cristiano: 24 years old

2009-02-06T00:45:00.001-08:00

Despite nursing his way back to full fitness following an ankle injury that was initially expected to keep the Portuguese international sidelined for three months, Cristiano Ronaldo returned in late September.

He is yet to hit top form, but is still one of the most efficient attackers in European football having beaten the goalkeepers of Everton; West Brom; Derby County; Gamba Osaka; Stoke City; Hull City; West Ham United; West Brom; Bolton; and Middlesbrough.

The latest recipient of FIFA's prestigious World Player of the Year award turns 24 today, and despite lifting aloft the Championship League, the Premier League, and the FIFA Club World Cup in the space of a year, the trickster is still desperate for more success with Manchester United.

"I’ve spoken to some experienced players who have a great history in the game and they’ve said, it’s not what you do in one season, it’s staying at the top level, that is the challenge," he informed the club's official website.

"I have to carry on like that. If I don’t perform, I know people will start to criticise me and I don’t want that. I’m an ambitious player and I want to victory many, many more things.

Last season's 42-goal phenomenon has been constantly linked with a move to Real Madrid, and the night he was awarded the World's greatest player of 2008, fresh rumours were printed in the Spanish and British press indicating that a coprighting of the term CR9 had been undertaken.

"I feel at home in Manchester," he said, perhaps refuting the notion he was unhappy with life in the North West. "I’ve been here since I was 18. I like living here and my family like to visit. The only bad thing is there are no direct planes from Madeira!

"But my mum and sister like to visit, it’s a nice place, nice people, they’re always great with me, no one gives me any problems. My life is brilliant!" he beamed.

Pepe: Cristiano Ronaldo will sign up for Real Madrid

2009-02-06T00:41:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid young defender Pepe has no doubts that he will soon be a side-mate of Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Manchester United popular footballer was linked with a switch to Real last summer but Pepe believes it will not be long before the two Portugal internationals are starring for the same club side.

He told AS: "I expect to be able to play with Cristiano Ronaldo at Madrid some day and I expect it to be soon.

"It is he who must decide. He has to choose Madrid, that is for sure, and I think that the Real Madrid executives want him.

"I hope that things go well. Cristiano already clarified his desire to come to Madrid, and it could not be, so we must hope."

Valencia midfielder Joaquin hopes his club form can earn him a recall to the Spain squad for next week's friendly international against England.

The former Real Betis star has been in the international wilderness for the last 15 months but has produced some great displays for Los Che so far this season.

He told Marca: "At the time at the time I was taken out of the Spain side, I was in a great run of form and the team boss counted on me. The truth is that I do not understand the motives for leaving me out.

"If I return, I would be speechless and it would be special, but I am relaxed and I try not to think about it.

"I will give a kiss to my wife and my daughter because they are the first to suffer the bad with me and also the great.

"Now is a new time and it is difficult to come in because there is a lot of quality, but the hope and desire are never lost.

"Everyone wants to beat Spain, not just because they are champions of Europe, but because they are a great side."

Meanwhile, Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o has revealed his intention to finish his career back at former club Real Mallorca.

The Cameroon international spent five seasons at San Moix before joining Barcelona in 2004 and is hoping to return to the Balearic club before he hangs up his boots.

Speaking before the two sides meet in a Copa del Rey semi-final on Thursday, he said: "I would like to spend a year or two at Mallorca before I finish my playing career, regardless of which division the side will be in.

"Hopefully, it will be in the top-flight.

"I hope that they can overcome their current poor run of results and improve their league position."

Cristiano Ronaldo crashes £200,000 Ferrari in tunnel

2009-01-09T13:53:00.001-08:00

The popular Cristiano Ronaldo apparently has a dangerous speed even off the football field. Indeed, he wrote off his red Ferrari today after colliding with a barrier on his way to training with the Manchester United team.

As we know, the front of the £200,000 599 GTB model was crumpled in the smash and one of its wheels lay 200 yards behind the battered vehicle in a tunnel near Manchester airport this almost tragic morning. Fortunately, the player didn't suffer any injury.

A witness claims that the Portugal international walked away from the wreckage with no sign of injury. “It is amazing he got out of it without a scratch,” said the man who asked not to be named.

Jody Lomax, a driver who was behind the Ferrari in the 60mph tunnel that worms its way beneath Manchester Airport, said: “It went straight into the wall.

“I saw that the front left-hand wheel came off. When Ronaldo got out of the car I was shocked. He was all right, he was walking. He was obviously shaken – who wouldn’t be? But it’s a shame about the car.”

Indeed, the front of the red Italian sports car was virtually demolished. Ronaldo clambered out and walked to a path to raise the alarm by mobile phone.

He was breath-tested by police but the test was negative. Cristiano Ronaldo was then given a lift to training by United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar, who had been behind Ronaldo in his Bentley and saw the accident. Staff at the ground said Ronaldo did not seem bothered by the crash. A source said: “There wasn’t a scratch on him. He told us it was an accident.”

A smiling Cristiano drove himself home in a Bentley once training finished. And police officers said that no other vehicle was involved in the car accident.

Ramon Calderon denied the so commented secret deal to sell Cristiano Ronaldo

2008-12-23T15:35:00.000-08:00

According to some media, Spanish Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has totally denied the existence of a secret agreement by which Manchester United will transdfer Cristiano Ronaldo to the Primera Liga champions at the end of this season.

Spanish newspapers like"El Mundo" reported that a Real director had been overheard talking about the alleged accord, prompting a furious response from United manager Alex Ferguson who said he "wouldn't sell a virus" to the Madrid club.

"It's absolutely false that there is any agreement with Manchester United on that subject, about which I am so tired," Ramon Calderon was quoted as saying on the club's website

"In fact, the issue is completely dead and that's why I don't want to talk about it anymore," he added, speaking at FIFA event in Tokyo where he was questioned about the El Mundo report.
Ronaldo refused to talk about Real Madrid on Friday after United booked their place in Sunday's Club World Cup final, saying he was happy with the English Premier League champions.

"Manchester did not agree to sell Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid last summer," Calderon said. "From that moment Real Madrid had other goals."

Brazil with Luis Fabiano's hat-trick crushed Portugal

2008-11-20T11:19:00.000-08:00

It seemed like a duel between Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo. But in the end, Brazil gave beleaguered coach Dunga some respite on Wednesday by crushing Portugal 6-2 in a friendly game, helped by a hat-trick from striker Luis Fabiano, the real star of the night.

In fact, the five-times world champions had been held to 0-0 draws in their last three home games, against Argentina, Bolivia and Colombia, and had not scored in front of their own fans since last November.

Coach Dunga was jeered by the crowd and seemed to be in for a long night when Danny opened the scoring for the visitors by turning in Bruno Alves's cross after four minutes.

However, Luis Fabiano levelled four minutes later following a break down the left by Robinho and put Brazil ahead in the 25th minute with a shot on the turn from Kaka's pass.

And in an incredible period of 10 minutes, the second half produced four goals. Portugal was doomed

Maicon scored with an angled shot for Brazil in the 55th minute and Luis Fabiano completed his hat-trick with an opportunist goal two minutes later.

We must say that Simao Sabrosa pulled one back for the visitors, only for Elano to rifle home Brazil's fifth from another chance created by Kaka.

Inter's striker Adriano headed Brazil's sixth in stoppage-time as Brazil completed their first win over Portugal since 1989.

Cristiano Ronaldo wants a even better contract with Manchester United

2008-11-13T13:57:00.001-08:00

As we know, Cristiano Ronaldo is currently the highest paid player at Old Trafford, having signed a £120,000-a-week, five-year contract in April 2007.

But the player's agent, Jorge Mendes, believes the 23-year-old warrants a pay rise, having been named FIFpro World Player of the Year and now favourite to pick up the prestigious European and World Player of the Year awards in the coming weeks.

A statement from Mendes' company, Gestifute, expressed: "It is normal that a footballer wants a deal to go with his status and one that matches his performance on the field.

"But nobody has prepared anything concrete. We want to avoid any rumours in the press and we do predict a meeting with Manchester United to speak about the future of Ronaldo, but still there is not an exact date."

This announcement has been treated with surprise and suspicion by United, who are reluctant to offer Ronaldo a wage increase so soon after he spent last summer angling for a move to Real Madrid.

The portuguese player will have to prove his commitment to United before an improved deal is placed on the table, and even then it is unlikely to be anywhere near the £150,000 a week Real Madrid offered him just five months ago.

Reports, however, suggest United chief executive David Gill will open discussions with Mendes at the end of the season, for fear Ronaldo may buy himself out of his current agreement if a new deal is not agreed by summer 2010.

Cristiano Ronaldo eager to win at the Emirates Stadium

2008-11-06T15:21:00.000-08:00

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo wants his team Manchester United to go for the jugular and get their first ever win at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The footballer expects a tough test despite the amount of injuries Arsene Wenger has to cope with.

As we know, United lost their visits to both Liverpool and Arsenal and also dropped points against Newcastle and Everton this term, and Ronaldo feels Sir Alex Ferguson's side have plenty to prove as they go for a title hat-trick.

"We want to win the title so we have to get three points there," Ronaldo said. I don't know if it is tough for them at the moment but they will still have 11 players, the same as us, and I know it will be difficult because it always is.

"But we have a great spirit and we are a great team, so our aim is to pick up three points."

United had an excellent record at Highbury in its latter years, they have so far managed a single point from two visits to the Emirates, conceding late goals on both occasions.

"It is a new stadium and maybe it is because of that our record at the Emirates is not as good as it was at Highbury," Ronaldo expressed.

"However, we must not forget also Arsenal have great talent. We respect them and it is going to be difficult to win there."

Indeed, Cristiano Ronaldo believes Arsenal are not out of the title race. "Last season Arsenal started very well and dropped points at the end of the season," he said.

"Maybe this season is going to be different. Maybe they will lose points at the start and then win them in the last bit of the season. But we can't worry about that. We have to think about ourselves" the portuguese finished

Deodorant cans to tease Cristiano Ronaldo

2008-11-04T09:54:00.000-08:00

Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo is regularly mocked by his ManchesterUnited teammates over his damp patches.

Indeed, in the summer, an unflattering photo of the footballer was published which showed him sweating through a jacket on a night out.

That's why Cristiano Ronaldo's fellow clubmates filled his locker with cans of deodorant and aftershave as part of a cruel prank.

"As he is never one for getting to training early, he found this picture copied all over the dressing room," Manchester United youth academy director Brian McClair admitted to the press.

"When he opened his locker, all the deodorants and perfumes fell out. He was not amused."

Proud Cristiano, 23, is usually immaculate with his appearance.

Real Madrid President fires back against Sir Alex Ferguson about Cristiano Ronaldo's case

2008-10-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid most important man, Ramon Calderon, has told Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson that he is "going senile" after the Scot recently criticised the Spanish champions once again for their pursuit of portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo.

As we know, Sir Alex Ferguson claimed Gabriel Heinze, who moved from Old Trafford to Madrid for £8m last summer, was simply a pawn in Real's "obscene" hunt of his close friend and former team-mate Ronaldo.

The popular Ferguson said: “I knew their bid was coming (for Cristiano Ronaldo).

“When we sold Gabriel Heinze to Real Madrid we knew it was going to happen because Ronaldo was very close to Heinze. I don’t believe they were interested in Heinze, good player though he is.

"The end game was to get Ronaldo. What made it really obscene was that Madrid, as General Franco’s club, had a history of being able to get whomever and whatever they wanted before democracy came to Spain.”

Calderon has since claimed Madrid's pursuit of the winger is over "forever", and in response to Ferguson's comments, told Marca: "I won't waste time answering him. I admire his history but recently he has gone a bit senile."

Indeed, Fergie has also been insulted by the front cover of Marca, which has a series of pictures depicting the 66-year-old morphing into General Franco, under the headline 'Calderon loses his patience with the "Little Franco of Manchester".

And Ramon Calderon's remarks are the second attack on Ferguson in the last 24 hours.

Arrigo Sacchi, a former director of football at Real Madrid, has suggested it is Ferguson who should take a long, hard look at himself over United's pursuit of Giuseppe Rossi.

The Italian forward has since been sold to Villarreal, and Sacchi expressed: "I was surprised when I read about Sir Alex complaining Real are not a gentleman club.

"But he was out of order saying Real always get what they want because they are a club who belonged to General Franco.

"He took Rossi at the age of 16 when he was playing for my club Parma.

"Yes, maybe we were struggling financially but Sir Alex Ferguson robbed us. They knew we needed money and help. But they acted in a sneaky way and took our star footballer."

Cristiano's double for a 2 - 0 victory over West Ham United

2008-10-29T22:35:00.000-07:00

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo picked up the FifPro World Footballer of the Year award before kick-off last night and proceeded to show West Ham United just why his fellow professionals voted him the best player on the planet. As gratefully received as his two goals were, it was the return of a smile to the Portugal striker’s face that will have heartened Sir Alex Ferguson, the Manchester United boss, as much as it will have sent a shudder down the spines of opposition defenders.

Indeed, Cristiano Ronaldo’s sullen body language, coupled with a reluctance to celebrate previous goals scored this season, had hinted at a player struggling to accept that his immediate future lies with United after a much-publicised courtship with Real Madrid in the summer, but on this evidence, such troubles finally appear to have been put to bed.

The “Viva Ronaldo” chants are still to be sung with the same gusto they were last season but normal service was resumed on the player’s part, two poacher’s finishes and a directness to complement a flurry of tricks and flicks were enough to see off a West Ham team who seemed resigned to a fourth successive Barclays Premier League defeat almost from the start.

“He has got five goals already and he can get between 25 and 42 goals this season — who knows, he might get 42 again,” Ferguson admitted. “He is capable of that because he is such a threat in the penalty box.”

Old Trafford had half-emptied with ten minutes remaining, but West Ham’s players had disappeared from show long before then. At this rate, it is going to be a long, hard season for Gianfranco Zola, the East London club’s manager, who described Saturday’s match away to Middlesbrough as “crucial”.

As captivating as United’s football had been in the first half away to Everton on Saturday, it yielded a solitary goal and the champions paid for their profligacy as they were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw.

Two up after half an hour, there was no danger of a repeat last night, although Ferguson was critical of his players for being “too lax” in the second period. If they were guilty of going through the motions, though, it was only because West Ham were a shadow of the team that had beaten the champions in three of their previous four league meetings.

Aside from a five-minute spell at the start of the game, United’s domination was total and any fears that Ferguson had taken a risk by omitting Edwin van der Sar and leaving Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney on the substitutes’ bench were quickly dispelled. Patrice Evra and Nani formed a lethal combination down the left; the increasingly impressive Rafael Da Silva and Ronaldo did much the same on the right. The only disappointment for United was that the expected landslide failed to materialise.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the fourteenth minute. Da Silva’s cross was only partially cleared, Anderson picked up the ball 20 yards out and found Nani, who crossed for Ronaldo to shoot left-footed across Robert Green, the West Ham goalkeeper, and celebrate wildly.

Dimitar Berbatov has shown glimpses of his talent, but the manner in which the Bulgaria forward made a fool of James Collins in the build-up to the second goal seemed to herald his arrival as a United player. Stopping the ball on the byline with one touch after being sent clear by Anderson, Berbatov flicked it past the West Ham defender effortlessy with his next, before passing the ball to Ronaldo to slot home. “You’d pay double the money to watch that,” Ferguson said.

Carlos Tévez has not started seven of the 11 matches since Berbatov arrived from Tottenham Hotspur, and on this evidence it is clear why. Ferguson sat down with the Argentina striker last week to emphasise that his faith in him was “absolute”, but he will have his work cut out dislodging Berbatov, not to mention Rooney, who entered the fray in the 70th minute sporting arguably his meanest look yet.

His head shaven to the bone, the England forward almost scored immediately, Green doing well to tip over a deft lob, but, other than the return of Michael Carrick after six weeks out injured, there was little to get excited about. Ronaldo, excluded, of course.

Manchester United (4-4-2): T Kuszczak — Rafael Da Silva (sub: G Neville, 81min), R Ferdinand, N Vidic, P Evra — C Raaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaonaldo, D Fletcher (sub: M Carrick, 70), Anderson, Nani (sub: W Rooney, 70) — C Tévez, D Berbatov. Substitutes not used: B Foster, R Giggs, Park Ji Sung, J O’Shea. Booked: Evra.

West Ham United (4-3-3): R Green — J Faubert, J Collins, M Upson, H Ilunga — V Behrami (sub: L Boa Morte, 45), H Mullins, L Bowyer (sub: F Sears, 69) — D Di Michele, C Bellamy, M Etherington (sub: J Collison, 46). Substitutes not used: J Lastuvka, W López, C Davenport, K Reid.

Ferdinand supports Cristiano Ronaldo

2008-10-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

According to some newspapers, Rio Ferdinand insists that the Manchester United camp wasn't an awkward one on the return of Cristiano Ronaldo, who looked set for Real Madrid during the summer.

As we know, Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid was, of course, the big transfer story of a summer full of controversy. What's more, Sir Alex Ferguson fought tooth and nail to keep the Portuguese winger, who hadn't until recently come out to declare himself happy to stay in Manchester.

But Rio Ferdinand insists that Ronaldo's fellow players welcomed him back to Carrington and Old Trafford after he finally recovered from his ankle injury, rejecting the notion that there was any animosity shown toward the 23-year-old.

Revealing that he was in contact with Ronaldo whilst the transfer saga raged on, Ferdinand told Sky Sports: "I was speaking to him in the summer all the time anyway and I gave him my point of view and told him what I think. We spoke about a lot of things.

Asked if he was given a frosty reception on his eventual return, he responded: "No, the lads were happy to see him come back.

"If he was a different kind of person - someone who didn't really get on with the lads, maybe a recluse - it might have been different.

"But he's a good lad who gets on with everyone. We enjoy his company, he enjoys ours, so there were no problems when he walked back through the doors."

Asked if Cristiano Ronaldo deserved his FIFPro World Footballer of the Year award, Ferdinand was positive and further highlighted Ronaldo's 'winning mentality'.

He told the club's official web: "I think that all the top players have a winning mentality, even in training. He's a guy who wants to learn and be the best in whatever he does - even in table tennis against me!

"Last season and the season before he was faultless. He was doing things other people cannot do and we have won a lot, so he's played a really big part."

Cristiano Ronaldo super confident about the Golden Ball

2008-10-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo is extremely confident he will win the Ballon d'Or - because he thinks he deserves it, and that the likes of Lionel Messi and Xavi are not really serious rivals.

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is a front-runner to become the European Footballer of the Year - and in his opionion, he thoroughly deserves it.

Indeed, Ronaldo told La Gazzette: "I don't see any rival for the Ballon d'Or and I feel pretty much relaxed."

He also believes he deserves the 2008 Fifa World Player of the Year award.

Ronaldo was in scintillating form last season, when he scored 42 goals in all competitions for United as they collected both the Premier League and Champions League crowns.

Of course, his success reflected the contribution of his team-mates, but Ronaldo is not one for false modesty. He is claiming that he should claim the individual accolades.

He told Gazzetta dello Sport: "Sincerely, yes, I'm so confident.

"If you assess what I did over the course of the season, I think I did more than everyone. What else should I have done to win the Ballon d'Or and the Fifa award?"

He is actually on a 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d'Or, previously known as the European Footballer of the Year award, togeher with United team-mate Wayne Rooney and Liverpool's Spain striker Fernando Torres.

Ronaldo also revealed that he played through 'torture' towards the end of the season, and at Euro 2008, before submitting o the inevitable and undergoing ankle surgery.

However, he reckons he would also delay future operations if it meant he could appear in crucial matches.

He said: "At times it was like having a knife in my ankle.

"I gritted my teeth. I don't regret it. It was worth it. It was torture, also psychologically."

Now fully fit, he is targeting back-to-back Champions League titles after last season's win in Moscow.

"I want to win a second Champions League, Manchester United have everything to focus on this. But I am wary of Inter and Juventus."

Cristiano Ronaldo considers that there is too much media coverage for the Real Madrid rumours

2008-07-11T16:40:00.001-07:00

The talented Cristiano Ronaldo has told the media in Portugal that he is tired of the furore surrounding his anticipated move to Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid, adding that the ankle injury he is recovering from is the worst of his career.

The Portuguese superstar provoked discontent in the football world on Thursday when he agreed with Fifa president Josepp Blatter's assertion that he was a 'modern slave'.

This comment only heightened the media coverage of his attempts to leave Manchester United for Real Madrid.

A day after his inflammatory remarks, Ronaldo said he did not want to discuss the matter further.

"I do not want to speak anymore about this," Cristiano Ronaldo admitted. "I am tired of this situation.

"We are going to see what occurs in the next days.

As for Ronaldo's injury, the Portugal national team's physiotherapist Antonio Gaspar confirmed that he is likely to be out of action for three months and insisted Manchester United are being kept up to date with all developments.

"That the time of recovery will be up to around the 12 weeks, the term initially anticipated. There is permanent contact with the medical staff of Manchester United."

Man. U: "Ronaldo is not going anywhere"

2008-07-04T15:58:00.001-07:00

English powerhouse Manchester United have rubbished stories suggesting that Cristiano Ronaldo is on the brink of a move to Real Madrid.

Reports in Spain on Friday claimed that Real were ready to pay more than 86 million euros (£67million) for the player.

The Red Devils were understood to be demanding 100million euros but it was still alleged that a deal was close and could be completed within days.

However, United have now responded to the rumours and reiterated their desire to keep the Portugal superstar.

A club spokesman said: "It is utter nonsense and totally laughable. Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale."

Cristiano Ronaldo has been fairly quiet on the subject of his future but Manchester United have been angered by Real's 'public pursuit' of their player and reported the matter to FIFA earlier in the summer.

The speculation has only increased but United are standing firm and will now hope Real decide to end their interest.

Indeed, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to undergo surgery on an ankle injury early next week after being seen by a specialist.

Cristiano dreams about Madrid

2008-06-22T01:32:00.001-07:00

Talented and popular, Cristiano Ronaldo is still human, and he has dreams. In fact, he believes he can achieve his 'dream' move to Real Madrid without formally requesting a transfer from Manchester United. The Portuguese has instructed his agent, Jorge Mendes, to begin negotiating an immediate exit from Old Trafford. At the same time, Mendes has been mandated by Real to offer a cash-plus-player deal.

Brazil's Robinho and Wesley Sneijder of Holland head the list with which Real hope to tempt Sir Alex Ferguson, with the Spanish team's opening offer expected to be €40 million plus one of the two. Ronaldo, due to go on holiday, is said to be confident that Manchester United will accept that his departure is inevitable.

The Red club said on Friday that they 'are not listening to offers' and that the 23-year-old is 'not for sale'. Cristiano Ronaldo, who is a single season into a five-year contract, has yet to speak to Ferguson, but insists he will stand up to any attempt by the manager to change his mind.

'There are many possibilities for me to play for Real Madrid, but they do not depend on me,' he said. 'I will announce my decision and everyone knows what it is. Everyone has a dream to chase and I'm going to chase mine' he concluded.

"I have nothing to prove on Moscow Champions League Final"

2008-05-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

Talented player Cristiano Ronaldo claims he has nothing to prove to the critics who claim the Manchester United winger will never be a truely great player until he shines in the biggest finals.

The 23-year-old has a great opportunity chance to put an end to the claim that he goes missing against world-class opposition when United face Chelsea in Wednesday's Champions League final.

In fact, a series of lacklustre performances in last year's FA Cup final defeat to Chelsea and the Champions League semi-final against AC Milan led to suggestions Cristiano Ronaldo is a flat-track bully.

Despite that criticism, the Portugal forward is adamant his superb form over the last two Premier League seasons has showed his true worth.

"I scored two great goals against Arsenal, I scored against Liverpool and against Chelsea," he told the Observer. "I am really happy with my season. I have scored 41 goals and won every award, I don't have to show anything to anyone. There is nothing to prove.

"People can think what they like, I really don't care. Maybe if I play well in Moscow I might win the European individual award, too, and that would end the argument, but I am not thinking about that now.

"I have never won the Champions League and I think I have a golden chance with Manchester United. And that's what I am concentrating on."

If Cristiano Ronaldo can impose his unique talents against Chelsea in Moscow he believes there is every chance the game will rise above the mediocre level of their FA Cup final meeting at Wembley last season.

"Just consider that it's a different competition, different style, different stadium, everything is different," he noticed. "And this is the biggest game of all to look forward to.

"Most of the footballers on the pitch will not have played in a Champions League final before, this will be the biggest game of their entire careers. Me included. It is the only thing I have not won in English football."

It's important to notice that Ronaldo's first Champions League final appearance could be his last match for United if reports that he is interested in joining Real Madrid are true.

Indeed, in public he makes a convincing case that he will stay at Old Trafford, for now at least, though, he appears to say one thing to the English press and quite another when he speaks to the Spanish newspapers.

"I think I am at the right club. It feels like home and the people here have been fantastic with me," he admitted. "I am reallyhappy here, and I think I will be here next year, but you never know the future."

Video: Nike "Next Level" Ad

2008-05-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

The latest Nike ad shows the footballers world through their own eyes. And Cristiano Ronado takes part of it:

Ronaldo to decide his future after Champions League Final

2008-05-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

Talented footballer Cristiano Ronaldo insists he will discuss his future at Manchester United after the UEFA Champions League final game.

The popular Player of the Year was part of the United side which overcame Barcelona 1-0 on Tuesday night to set up an all-English final in Moscow next month.

According to the media, Manchester United are looking to tie Ronaldo down to a new long-term contract, while the winger continues to be admired by Real Madrid.

Indeed, Cristiano Ronaldo has regularly played down suggestions he will join the Spanish champions and wants to focus on securing more silverware with the Red Devils.

"What I want to do is play in the final and win the next game against West Ham to win the league," Ronaldo admitted to a newspaper.

"For my future, I neither know nor want to talk about it. After the Champions League final, we can talk about it."

United's top scorer also praised the club's fans for their role in helping the team to withstand heavy Barcelona pressure to book a place in the Champions League final.

He told MUTV: "The fans were absolutely fantastic. They did a great job and sang for the whole game. It gave the footbalers motivation and helped us get a massive result.

"The feeling is just great. It will be my first Champions League final and I feel very good. It's great for me and my colleagues.

"The final is in about three weeks and we have time to work and keep our concentration. But the most important thing now is the Premier league title."

Cristiano Ronaldo Mobile Wallpapers - Take him with you!

2008-05-03T01:53:00.001-07:00

In response to every fan request, we provide you with these great cell phone wallpapers, compatible with Nokia, Motorola, Sony Ericsson, LG and Samsung mobile devices.

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Cristiano Ronaldo Wallpapers

2008-05-03T01:16:00.001-07:00

With this amazing desktop wallpapers, you will take Cristiano Ronaldo's style to your computer. Just pick the one you like the most, and click on it to expand the wallpaper. Then, right click on it to save.

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Ronaldo Fans Message Board

2008-05-03T01:12:00.000-07:00

This is a space where every fan from around the world can leave a word dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo. Write down on the comments area, and leave your name and email for further news and contests.

Link to Cristiano Ronaldo

2008-05-02T00:40:00.001-07:00

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Video: Cristiano Ronaldo best moves and goals

2008-05-02T00:22:00.000-07:00

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Cristiano Ronaldo Bio

2008-05-02T00:16:00.001-07:00

Since Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was a little child, he proved to be a talented boy. He is the son of Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro and José Dinis Aveiro. He has one older brother, Hugo, and two elder sisters, Elma and Liliana Cátia. Cristiano's second given name, "Ronaldo," is relatively rare in Portugal. His parents named him after Ronald Reagan due to his late father's admiration for the former president.

He is now better known as Cristiano Ronaldo, the most popular, talented, handsome and powerfull football player of Portugal. He plays for Manchester United with th Number 7 jersey, and shows his talent every week in the Premier League.

His father, Dinis Aveiro died on September 7, 2005. Ronaldo played in a World Cup qualifier against Russia only hours after receiving the terrible news.He was also granted compassionate leave by Sir Alex Ferguson and missed the Manchester derby against Manchester City on September 10. However, he declared himself available for Manchester United's next game in the UEFA newer Champions League, against Villarreal.

Cristiano Ronaldo has dated the model Jordana Jardel, sister of Brazilian footballer Mario Jardel, and model Lauren Frain. Ronaldo has done charity work, as well as flying out Martunis, an 11-year-old Indonesian tsunami survivor and his father to attend one of their World Cup qualifiers in June 2005; covering all their expenses. Subsequently all the footballers contributed money to buy them a house in Indonesia.

He started his professional career at Sporting Clube of Portugal in 2002. The next year, the powerfull Manchester United decided to get him into their team, and they were not wrong. Cristiano Ronaldo has been there for 6 seasons, and scored more that 80 goals.

He has also played the 2004 UEFA European championship (runner up) and the 2006 World Cup (4th place) with Portugal.

You are at Cristiano Ronaldo Zone!

2008-03-05T02:31:00.000-08:00

That means you will see, hear, breath and taste everything about Cristiano Ronaldo. The super talented player of Manchester United is here!

Get fully access to his latest results, news, bio, wallpapers, pics, videos and more. This site is constantly updated so you can track the activity of Ronaldo everyday! We hope you like this fabulous web, and come back soon.