RONNIE TELLS UNITED TO GET OVER IT

Last updated : 03 August 2003 By Editor

Anyway, from The Supersoaraway:

"I read what Roy Keane said and I think he has made a big mistake. His comments went too far.

"United are not the only club in the world. There are a lot of others in the same class and in my opinion one of them is Barcelona. That's why I signed.

"I chose the Barca option and United have to accept that sportingly. I don't regret it. There will be a lot of samba dancing this season and United will be watching it on TV.

"If Alex Ferguson is angry with me, that's his problem. He knows these things happen in football."

Ronaldinho attempted to play down the importance of the friendly, which will be seen by many as a grudge match.

"For me, the game is just another pre-season friendly, where results are beside the point," he added.

"I don't know if I'm going to play, but if I do I'll do so without thinking anything special. The matter, as far as I'm concerned, is closed, win or lose."

And this, just a day later in The NOTW:

"United were definitely my first choice. Originally they were very polite but they left a lot of questions unanswered. "I was left with a broken heart. I met great people in Manchester and I hope the door is open for the future.

"What really disappoints me is I was ready and extremely close to being the first Brazilian to play for them.

"Throughout the negotiations, the United people showed a certain distance while Barcelona pushed for me and presented a more personal touch.

"Things took too long and Barcelona arrived at the table. I had to make a decision because United weren't contacting me. My physical condition was starting to get questionable and, at the stage I am at professionally, I cannot afford that to happen."