I almost joined Manchester City - Ronaldo Cristiano Ronaldo says he was close to joining Manchester City before following his "heart&qu...

I almost joined Manchester City - Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo says he was close to joining Manchester City before following his "heart" by rejoining Manchester United.

The Portuguese forward hit the headlines earlier this week after telling Talk TV he felt "betrayed" by the club.

The first part of the full interview was released on Wednesday in which he gave more details on his version of events at Old Trafford.

"To be honest, it was close," he said of the possibility of joining City.

Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford from Juventus in August 2021 - 11 years after leaving the club to join Real Madrid.

At the time it was reported that City coach Pep Guardiola wanted him and although Ronaldo confirmed that intention, he said he decided to sign with United after talking to his former manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The 37-year-old added: "As you know, my history at Manchester United, your heart, you feel the way you were before, it makes a difference. And of course, Sir Alex Ferguson.

"I spoke to him. He told me, 'it's impossible for you to come to Manchester City'. And I said 'OK, boss'."

Ronaldo, who will miss Portugal's friendly against Nigeria on Thursday due to a stomach ailment, criticized the behavior and professionalism of young footballers during an interview, accusing them of "disrespecting" their older and more experienced team-mates.