Ronaldo: Fergie made me who I am

Cristiano Ronaldo has credited Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson for making him into a better player.

The Portuguese winger spent six years under Fergie before completing his £80million move to Real Madrid.

“Ferguson is a maestro,” Ronaldo told AS. “For me he was my father in football.

“He was crucial in my career and, outside football, was a great human being with me.

“Talent isn’t everything. You can have it from the cradle, but it is necessary to learn the trade to be the best.

“When I arrived in England I was an 18-year-old kid and had established stars by my side.

“Ferguson taught me to clean up my faults, to know to give the pass at the last moment, to take the right decision in the area.

“I spent six years at United and I owe them everything that I am today. I made history at United and won many trophies.

“It was a pleasure to play at Old Trafford, but now a new stage in my life is beginning at the Bernabeu with new challenges.”

“It’s obvious that I’m a less egotistical footballer now,” he added. “Without a doubt.

“I know for sure that four years ago I always played to try to end up scoring myself.

“But experience makes you understand that you achieve better things playing as a team and being united. At Madrid they will see a better Cristiano.”