Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has launched an extraordinary attack on the Spanish nation and Real Madrid in particular over what he believes are attempts to “naturalise” Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portuguese coach draws a bizarre comparison between the player and Christopher Columbus.
Real Madrid have made no secret of their desire to recruit Ronaldo, prompting United to consider reporting them to FIFA.
But Queiroz feels Madrid’s outspoken courting of his Portuguese compatriot is about more than their wish to snap up the gifted winger, claiming it is part of the long history and rivalry between Portugal and Spain.
“Cristiano Ronaldo will never be Spanish! As they will never take Olivenca again,” he told Portuguese newspaper 'Jornal do Noticias', referring to the small town on the disputed border between the two countries.
Queiroz also delved further into the historic rivalry, alluding to explorer Christopher Columbus – who both countries claim as theirs – and the 60-year Philippine Dynasty when Portugal was ruled by three Spanish kings until the bloodless revolution of 1640.
“They already did the same with Christopher Columbus, and it now seems they want to naturalise Cristiano Ronaldo,” added the United number two.
“Have they already forgotten what we did to them in the past? We will never lose our patience.”
With Portugal preparing for Euro 2008, Queiroz knows the furore surrounding Ronaldo’s future could not have come at a worse time.
“It’s being done in a manner to distract the Portugal team, at the height of their preparations for the European Championships,” he said.
“But I am convinced that despite pressure from the Spanish sporting press he will not accept to change his nationality.
“However, it is an attack with a well-defined strategy and Portugal should be worried about that.”
Meanwhile, defender Gerard Pique has paid tribute to United manager Alex Ferguson after returning to Barcelona.
“I am leaving with some very special memories, most of all the experience of being part of a fantastic group,” he told www.manutd.com.
“Obviously I would have liked to have played more this season, but the manager has always treated me in an exceptional manner, for which I am extremely grateful.
“I would like the fans to know that I will always carry United in my heart and I hope that they understand my decision to go back to my home club.” |
發表於 2008-5-28 10:36 PM
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