Cristiano Ronaldo convinced two players to sign for Manchester United instead of arsenal with a simple phone call.
Ronaldo himself wanted by Arsenal when he was making waves as a young man in Sporting CP, but in 2003 decided to join United for a fee of £ 12.75 million and developed as the world’s best player.
In 2008, Ronaldo, a year after winning the Bellon D’Or, left an then world-riddled £ 80 million in Real Madrid and returned for each other magic in 2021.
But it was a Portuguese superstar who persuaded a pair stars to join him in Old Trafford. Twin Full-Back Rafael and Fabio da Silva were done by Arsenal when they were coming through the Fluminance Academy, but Scout Less Karshaw was also monitored by United after scouting “Two Little Whipages”.
Sir Alex Ferguson recommended a deal, he signed for United in February 2007 – played an important role with Ronaldo.
Ronaldo’s role in double deal
Rafael said, “They called my phone, and I will never forget it.” UTD Podcast,
“My phone had all zero [on the screen, to indicate an international call] And I was saying ‘Who is this? I never received a call in this way. ‘I replied, and I knew him because I was first trained with him.
“He just said: ‘Ah, [Portuguese greeting]’I ran in my bus saying:’ This is Ronaldo, this is Ronaldo! He is calling us to speak! ,
“He just said: ‘It is raining here, it is raining here in Manchester, as you know.” He said: ‘I ask you to tell you: Sign for Manchester United.
“I couldn’t believe [it]It was amazing. “
Twins Rafael and Fabio da Silva both signed for Manchester United. Picture: Getty
Rafale was more successful in twins, 170 appearances and club captain Gary Neville became the right-back of United’s first choice after retirement.
He raised the Premier League title during his time at Old Trafford, while his brother only joined hands on a medal and played only 56 times before signing for Cardiff City.
Later Fabio set out for Middlesbro, Nentas and Gremio, while Rafael represented Leon, Istanbul Basakshir and Botfogo.