They reveal the reason why they mocked Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United

When Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at Manchester United in the 2003/04 season, he was an 18-year-old with dazzling talent but also a personality and style that clashed with the Red Devils' dressing room. Mads Timm, a former teammate of the Portuguese star, has revealed details about the mocking the star received in his early years at the club.

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A Dressing Room Full of Stars

Ronaldo joined a team filled with established figures like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Rio Ferdinand, among others. In that context, the young Portuguese player had to earn his place through character and perseverance.

Mocking for His Style and Attitude

Mads Timm recalled that Ronaldo was mocked for his haircut, his acrobatic attempts on the pitch, and his style of play, which sometimes seemed more about impressing than being effective. "He was mocked for his haircut and for his acrobatic attempts and his way of playing, which only sought to impress the coaches," Timm stated.

An Overwhelming Personality

Despite the mocking, Ronaldo demonstrated unwavering determination. "What was truly special about him is that he immediately set himself up to compete for the team's leadership. And he achieved it. It didn't matter what you said to him. It was me, me, me. Cristiano Ronaldo. CR7," Timm recalled.

Sir Alex Ferguson's Support

Several former Manchester United players have highlighted Sir Alex Ferguson's fundamental role in Ronaldo's development. Edward William Johnson, another former teammate of the Portuguese star, pointed out that Ferguson became a father figure to him, especially after his father's death.

"Ferguson was a father figure to him, because Ronaldo had problems with his father, who later died when he was still young. So I think the manager assumed that role, and that is one of the main reasons why he was able to get the best out of him," Johnson commented.

A Particular Style

Johnson also recalled his first impression of Ronaldo when he saw him arrive at Carrington, Manchester United's training ground. "He appeared at the entrance to Carrington, and I remember seeing him and thinking, 'Who is this guy?' Because he was terribly dressed. He was wearing a turtleneck sweater and tight, faded jeans. Someone told me he was Ronaldo, the new signing," Johnson recounted.

An Enduring Legacy

Despite the initial difficulties, Ronaldo triumphed at Manchester United. During his six seasons at the club (2003-2009), he scored 118 goals, won 10 titles, including three Premier Leagues and a Champions League, and established himself as one of the best players in the world, winning his first Ballon d'Or in 2008.

Cristiano Ronaldo's story at Manchester United is an example of overcoming obstacles and determination. Despite the mocking and initial difficulties, the Portuguese player managed to impose his talent and become a legend of world football. His time at the English club marked the beginning of a career full of success and recognition.