For years, punters staunchly referred to the Brazilian World Cup winner as the Real Ronaldo in the face of the rise of his Portuguese namesake, almost to remind the world of his the former Barcelona and Inter Milan strikers class. Nowadays, those cries arent so loud, with Cristiano having broken nearly every goal record in the book, but that doesnt take anything away from the sheer brilliance of the Brazilian. Following the 2002 World Cup, Inter Milan must have been bracing themselves for a horde of bids for their prized asset, following his eight-goal salvo during the tournament. Having looked destined to stay at the San Siro for years to come, he immediately signalled his intent to move to the Bernabeu upon his arrival - a decision which not only irked Inter Milan supporters, but also surprised many at the Nou Camp, having spent a season there. Initially, the agreed deal was supposed to be £13 million plus Fernando Morientes for the Brazilian superstar, but the Italians were to renege on the deal, leaving Madrid to launch a £23.5 million deal with Pedro Munitis thrown in for good measure. Once again, the offer was rebuffed, before a £28 million deal was agreed for the planets most coveted striker.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
