Friday, June 12, 2009

Going ... Going ..... Gone.

Well, it's finally happened. The transfer that I've been waiting for is finally confirmed. The saga that has transcended seasons is now brought to an end and Ronaldo can finally leave to fulfill his dream of playing for Real Madrid. 

Even though he's been at Man Utd for 6 seasons, he's really only played well for 3 of them - 2 very good seasons and 1 superlative one. The first 3 seasons were spent in developing his skills, vision and getting rid of his selfishness. But it was well worth the time. 

And nobody is suggesting that Real underpaid when the price tag is that hefty. In fact, criticism at Real was aimed not at the price tag but on the fact that they can even spend that amount of money in the current economic situation and AFTER buying Kaka for GBP 59 million. AND with Spain's unemployment rate hovering around 18%. Expect a bail out from the Spanish government AGAIN to save Real from their massive debt.

Two observations :

1. In comparison, Kaka's GBP 59 million deal can practically be termed as a discounted purchase. Funny to think of Kaka as a bargain buy; and

2. 


Newcastle United fans : Read 'em and weep !

But seriously, SAF bought Ronaldo in 2003 for GBP 12 million and is now selling him for GBP 80 million. Can't complain about the ROI on Ronaldo but he will not be held in the same high esteem as the likes of Robson, Keane or Schmeichel; let alone the likes of Charlton, Best and Law.

And definitely he won't be held in the same affection as King Eric.

Having said that, Ronaldo did leave his mark on United and skill-wise he would have borne comparison with Best.

So, thanks for the memories, Ronaldo !
It was good while it lasted.

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