Brazilian legend Ronaldinho Gaucho has revealed that he almost joined Manchester United back in 2003. The Red Devils wanted him to replace the departed David Beckham who joined Real Madrid back then, but the move failed to materialize as Barcelona intervened late and signed him.
Ronaldinho said in an interview with El Enganche,
“Before the offers came in he’d asked me if I would play for Barcelona when they [Rosell and Joan Laporta] won the elections and became Presidents, and I said ‘yes’.
“I was almost on the way to Manchester United and only the small details were needed to conclude the agreement. But at the last minute Rosell called to tell me they would win the elections and that made things happen quickly.
“I wanted to play for Barca. When I signed I didn’t feel under any pressure, I just felt joy. I had the chance all footballers would want, to play at a great club like Barcelona.
“It was a chance to follow in the footsteps of my idols. I was proud to play where Romario, Ronaldo and Rivaldo had played and it was an opportunity to become the club’s new ‘R’. I loved that,” he added.
After joining Barcelona, Ronaldinho went on to become a club legend at Camp Nou, winning FIFA Ballon d’Or in 2005. He also helped his side win two league titles and the UEFA Champions league in 2006.