The 2003 Friendly That Sealed Ronaldo's Man Utd Move

A dazzling display against Manchester United in a 2003 friendly left John O'Shea bamboozled and accelerated Ronaldo's transfer.

Cristiano Ronaldo

player

View profile →

What happened. In a 2003 friendly between Sporting and Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo's incredible trickery bamboozled John O'Shea, helping expedite his transfer to the Premier League club.

• Ronaldo's performance left O'Shea struggling to cope.
• The friendly showcased Ronaldo's raw talent.
• The display accelerated his move to Manchester United.

This match is remembered as a pivotal moment that changed football history.

In this story

Cristiano RonaldoManchester UnitedSporting CP

More to read

GiveMeSport

Agbonlahor: Man Utd Could Sign Man City Star Elliot Anderson for Half Price

CaughtOffside

“Answer is clear” – Fabrizio Romano gives update on under-pressure Premier League manager

Mirror Football

Man Utd fan group call for Man City to be EXPELLED from football after guilty verdict

Mirror Football

Man Utd injury blow confirmed as Patrick Dorgu immediately leaves Denmark camp