Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed he was 'about to go' to Arsenal after meeting Arsene Wenger in 2003. The move, however, has never materialized as the Portuguese snubbed the Gunners in favour of Manchester United instead.
"There had been contacts with so many other teams, Valencia, for example, were one of them," Ronaldo told TV1. "I met with Arsene Wenger and was about to go to Arsenal.
"I talked to Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter too but after the friendly against Manchester United, who were already interested, they became even more interested and they sped up negotiations and signed me."
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner turned 34 in February. While no one expects him to do so, Ronaldo admits he could retire already next year.
"Maybe I can leave my career next year," he added. "But I can also play up to 40 or 41. I don’t know. What I always say is to enjoy the moment. The gift is excellent and I have to continue to enjoy it."
