But while the 24-year-old celebrated in Los Angeles, he
was also exposed as a two-faced winker by the man who masterminded
the deal.
Ronaldo said: "I have had my time at Man United. It's
time to look forward and £80m is quite a sum of money. This deal is
historic."
However former Real president Ramon Calderon insisted
Ronaldo agreed to go more than SIX MONTHS ago.
The revelation makes a sham of the Portugal winger's
repeated claims that he was going to stay at United.
Calderon said: "It was easy. We agreed everything and
he decided to come."
He also claims United knew all about the deception and
added: "Let's say it was a gentleman's agreement.
"Let's say that everyone involved in the operation
agreed to do it this season. That is what I can say. It has
happened now, it was a bit early last season."
Ronaldo got the news that his transfer to Real had been
confirmed after being out clubbing all night in Los Angeles where
he is on holiday.
Speaking from his hotel room, Ronaldo said: "It's
flattering when two of the top teams in the world want you to play
for them.
"Now I can look forward to Real Madrid and a new stage
in my career. I learned of the deal here in LA and heard from my
people that United had accepted."
Ronaldo has been troubled by a hernia injury but said:
"I do not require surgery. The hernia is nothing to worry
about."
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has warned United they
will struggle to replace Ronaldo.
Sparky, twice shown the Old Trafford exit door as a
player, said of Ron's departure: "You will never compensate fully
unless you replace him like for like. That is very difficult to
do."
