Talking about Rooney, he described his then striking partner as a ‘fantastic player’.
Juventus' Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo. (Photo: AFP)
Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo confessed he was afraid of returning to Manchester United after he was spotted winking towards Portugal bench following the infamous incident that saw Wayne Rooney sent off in the World Cup quarter-final against Portugal in 2006.
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👍👍👍🔝 pic.twitter.com/jlfcHtarF5
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— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 1, 2018
In 2006 World Cup quarter-finals between Portugal and England, Rooney was shown a red card after he stamped on Ricardo Carvalho. After the incident, the Portugal striker caused a media storm in England when cameras caught him winking at the Portugal bench.
After his wink in World Cup, the former Manchester United man had become number his one enemy in England. Returning to England was a frightening prospect for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. However, CR7 also said he does not regret his actions and his former teammate Rooney quickly forgave him.
Speaking to Goalhanger, Cristiano Ronaldo also hinted reunion with old friend Rooney.
“[The media] created a big drama which never existed. So when I arrived [back in England] I was kind of afraid, not because of Rooney but because of England supporters,” Ronaldo told Goalhanger, before adding, “They made a huge story when I did the wink, but it was not because of the circumstances with Rooney, it was another situation. It was difficult timing for me because I thought when I arrived in Manchester, people were going to boo me in all the stadiums.”
Cristiano Ronaldo also said that when he went back to Manchester he talked with Rooney.
A great coach and above all a wonderful man. Taught me so many things inside and outside the pitch. Great to see you in good shape, Boss! pic.twitter.com/Ql4dcuJvCW
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 24, 2018
“But it’s the past, I had a chat with [Rooney] when I arrived back in Manchester. We are still friends, we speak about that and he understands my point of view. Of course, he helped me in all circumstances. He said: “Cristiano, this is the past, let’s speak about the presence, let’s win trophies together,” CR7 added.
Cristiano and Rooney won one Champions league trophy, two Leagues cups and three Premier league trophies at Old Trafford together.
Thanks for the warm welcome. Always feel at home here. pic.twitter.com/Tr5gny5Z5A
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 22, 2018
Talking about Rooney, he described his then striking partner as a ‘fantastic player’.
Ronaldo said, “He’s a fantastic lad, as you say in England. I always call him between me and my mates the pit bull. I remember when he lost the ball, he was so powerful. Strong guy, his shooting was unbelievable and he scored many goals.”
“I miss him. The future, nobody knows, maybe we’ll play one day together again,” Ronaldo concluded.
Ronaldo left Manchester United for Real Madrid in 2009.
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