80,000 fans welcome Ronaldo

CRISTIANO RONALDO fulfilled a “childhood dream” last night as he was unveiled as a Real Madrid player in front of an estimated crowd of 80,000 at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

The Portuguese forward, who has been handed the number nine jersey, was greeted by Alfredo di Stefano – considered the greatest player to have worn that particular shirt – Eusebio and Florentino Perez, the club president whose re-election prompted Ronaldo’s £80million (€94m) signing from Manchester United.

“I am just so happy to be here,” he said to a rapturous reception from the gathered thousands.

“For me, I have made my childhood dream a reality, which was nothing less than playing for Real Madrid.

“I didn’t expect a jam-packed stadium – this is truly impressive.”

Perez claimed last night’s events “might not have a precedent’”.

“We are very satisfied to know that you made the firm decision to play for Real Madrid,” Perez said.

He told Ronaldo what to expect from his new adoring fans, adding: “They will ask of you the very best, but will also give you their all.”

Ronaldo is the third player to be unveiled by Madrid since Perez returned to the presidency at the start of June, following in the footsteps of Kaka and Raul Albiol.

Last night’s attendance dwarfed the estimated 55,000 that watched Kaka’s unveiling here last Tuesday, and is believed to be the biggest turn-out for a presentation since a reported 75,000 saw the arrival of Diego Maradona at Napoli from Barcelona in 1984.

Earlier Ronaldo successfully completed his medical with Madrid after landing in the Spanish capital just after midday.

Speaking at a press conference after his presentation, Ronaldo insisted Real were “the closest club to my heart'’’ - but admitted it was a wrench to leave England.

“Thank you to all (United) supporters, the boss (Alex Ferguson), friends and team-mates – I’ve been there six years and have friends there. But people respect my decision,” he said.

“The great challenge now, and dream, is to play at Real Madrid but I’m going to miss many things in Manchester.”

The forward claimed he left Old Trafford, and Ferguson, on friendly terms. “It was good,” he said of his departure. “My relationship with him was always good and will stay that way forever. I went to Manchester, spoke to them and everything was fine. Life goes on.”

Ronaldo also reiterated his belief that he was worth the vast sum paid for his services.

“I have always thought that the best clubs, to have the best players, have to pay – so Real Madrid did a good thing. It was a correct decision.’