Cristiano Ronaldo and Sir Alex Ferguson share a special bond and that father-son-like relationship was apparent yet again after the UEFA Sper Cup match which Real Madrid won 2-0 against Sevilla at the Millenium Stadium in Cardiff. Almost 11 years to the day when he signed the superstar as an unknown 18-year-old, the Scot presented him with the Man of the Match award.
Ronaldo scored twice in the game.
Walking down the steps to celebrate with his team-mates after the game, he recognised a familiar face in the stands and paused to chat with a smile that was hard to wipe off.
The two-time Ballon d’Or winner later dedicated the award to his former manager who presented him with the trophy.
“I am happy because I scored these two goals and I want to thank Sir Alex for handing me the man of the match trophy.
He helped me a lot when I was just 18 in Manchester and I want to say I respect him and thank him so much for everything he did in my career.”
Ferguson, who chose to attend the UEFA Super Cup Final instead of the Manchester United vs Valencia friendly taking place at Old Trafford simultaneously, said it was an easy decision to choose the winner.
“Normally in a cup final it is difficult to choose a man of the match but Cristiano made it easy for me.”, the fiery Scot said.
The 29-year-old also welcomed new signings James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos.
“[Kroos and Rodriguez] These are two crucial players for us, they played well and helped the team win an important trophy. That’s why we are happy at Real Madrid to welcome them.
They are doing well and playing well. My team helped me and I am happy to score twice”, the two-time Champions League winner signed off.