Ramsey - Arsenal right for me

Teenage star explains United snub

By Rob Parrish   Last updated: 11th June 2008

Aaron Ramsey Cardiff

Ramsey: Heading to Arsenal

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Teenage sensation Aaron Ramsey is confident he has made the right decision after pledging his future to Arsenal.

The 17-year-old Welsh midfielder is poised to complete a summer move to Emirates Stadium after the Gunners agreed to pay Cardiff £5million to secure his services.

A host of clubs were battling to secure his services, with Premier League and European champions Manchester United thought to be leading the race, while Everton were also involved.

But the prospect of working with Arsene Wenger, who personally met with Ramsey when Arsenal flew him out to Switzerland, convinced the youngster that his future lay in North London, rather than at Old Trafford.

Future

"It is an honour to be wanted by massive clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United and Everton," Ramsey told the Western Mail.

"In the end I had to make the decision I felt was right for my future."

The teenager knows he will have his work cut out to break into Arsenal's star-studded first XI to play alongside the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Emmanuel Adebayor.

He added: "Cardiff City gave me my start in professional football and I won't forget that. It doesn't seem that long ago when I first joined as a schoolboy.

"I have come a fair way since then, but there is still a lot of hard work ahead."

The deal for Ramsey has yet to be formally completed but an official announcement from Arsenal is expected by the end of the week.

Disappointed

Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale insists there is no animosity with the Red Devils despite Ramsey turning his back on Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

He said: "I believe we handled the situation as well as it could be handled.

"I spoke to David Gill, Manchester United's chief executive, yesterday and they are disappointed, but there is no problem with Cardiff City whatsoever.

"We had a detailed chat and there is no bad vibe, none whatsoever. I kept Manchester United informed at every moment.

"They were the first to make a £5million offer, but I told them at the time that if any other clubs came in at an identical level, they would also be given permission for talks with Aaron.

"Arsenal have sent me an email thanking Cardiff City for the way the transfer negotiations were handled."