Cristiano Ronaldo admits he was ‘one step’ away from Arsenal transfer before Man Utd switch
CRISTIANO RONALDO admitted he was on the verge of joining Arsenal before Manchester United came in for him nineteen years ago.
In an interview with Gunners fan Piers Morgan for ITV in 2019, the Juventus star spoke of how he was just "one step" away from putting pen to paper in North London.
Back in 2003, Ronaldo was impressing at Sporting Lisbon and was given the opportunity to sign for Arsenal.
But a determined Sir Alex Ferguson ensured he got his man and the Portuguese winger went on to win three Premier League titles and a Champions League with the Red Devils.
After spells with Real Madrid and Juventus, CR7 made a sensational return to Old Trafford last summer.
But the club flopped to their lowest EVER Premier League points total - and then Ronaldo dropped the bombshell that he wanted to leave to play Champions League football.
United have insisted the 37-year-old is NOT for sale.
When asked if he almost signed for Arsenal, Ronaldo admitted: "It's true. Very close. One stop, incredible. Seriously."
Gunners-mad presenter Morgan pressed the Ronnie for an apology while telling him how it broke his heart that rivals United secured his services.
And Ronaldo obliged, joking: "I want to apologise, OK. Forgive me for not joining Arsenal."
Morgan went one step further with an Arsenal shirt for Ronaldo to keep, which he called a "classic" with his name on the back.
The host said: "This is what should have happened, it's what I've dreamed of for the last 16 years. It's not too late."
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While laughing throughout, Ronaldo stated that he has always been thankful for the interest Arsenal showed in him and suggested it was instigated by their iconic coach, Arsene Wenger.
The Portuguese icon added: "It didn't happen but, Arsenal, I appreciate what they did for me.
"Especially Arsene Wenger - but you know football and in football you never know."