KENYON HITS BACK

Last updated : 21 July 2003 By Editor
Everyone seems to be blaming each other for the failure to
sign Ronaldinho. Cuddy Pete believes it was down to PSG and
a lack of ambition from the Brazilian.

"We feel let down by Ronaldinho but we have to move on.
There was a growing concern about whether he wanted to play
for Manchester United and no matter how much ability they
have, unless the player is committed to the team it is a bad
signing.

"We are not arrogant and I am amazed at the insinuation that
Fabien Barthez was offered in any deal because that is not
the way we do them. I completely refute the suggestion we
made one offer verbally and went back with a much lower
offer in writing. We don't conduct our business like that
and we have enough standing with major European clubs for
other people to recognise that.

"Where we finished up was not a derisory offer and could not
be construed as insulting. If the player had wanted to come
to Manchester United he would have done so.

"You have got to be a special player to play for Manchester
United. What we offer is a major stage, Champions League
opportunities, a huge success factor in terms of picking up
medals and financial guarantees. The regime is strict but it
produces what most players want - a winning formula. Mentally
you have to be tough enough to stand it.

"You have to ask the question why they wanted to go
somewhere else and you can take that how you want."