There have been many legendary players over the years who have represented both Real Madrid and Manchester United. In the past, Old Trafford to Santiago Bernabeu was a popular route, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy making that journey. Things have changed since then though.
In recent times, several players have left Real Madrid to join Manchester United despite the Premier League club’s struggles since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson. Legends like Angel Di Maria, Raphael Varane and Casemiro fall under that category.
It looks like Sergio Ramos’ name was close to being on that list as well. But he ended up staying on at Santiago Bernabeu. In hindsight, that has certainly proven to be the right decision for the Spaniard.
As reported by AS, Ramos said:
"“Yes, I was close to playing for United. My father is a great fan of that team, but I stayed where I should, Real Madrid.”"
Real Madrid legend admits he was close to joining Manchester United
Ramos would go on to achieve legendary status at Real Madrid and won four Champions League titles during his time at Santiago Bernabeu. He wore the Royal White jersey for 16 years.
His run at the club would come to an end in 2021. He left that summer in order to join PSG. That was hyped up as a superteam but failed to meet expectations on the pitch.
Ramos did not have a great first season at PSG, struggling with fitness issues. But he made his way into the starting XI in his second campaign with the French giants.
Ramos would leave PSG this summer in order to seal a return to La Liga. While he would join one of his former clubs, it was not Real Madrid.
Instead, Ramos joined Sevilla, the club whose youth ranks he came through and where he got his first taste of senior-level football. Now 37 years of age, it remains to be seen how much longer he will continue playing.