Ronaldo: No desire to leave

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Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he expects to still be a Manchester United player next season.

The Portuguese superstar became embroiled in a long-running transfer saga with Spanish giants Real Madrid over the summer, with the winger admitting on several occasions that he would welcome the opportunity to join the Primera Liga outfit.

He was, eventually, persuaded to stay at Old Trafford by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, announcing he would remain at the club for 'another year at least'.

It was widely assumed that meant Real would make another move for the 23-year-old next year, with record-breaking transfer fees frequently touted.

However, Ronaldo appears to have quashed those rumours by insisting that he has no intention of leaving United for the foreseeable future.

Future

When asked where he was going to play next season, Ronaldo told Marca: "Only God knows the future. I insist that I am a Manchester United player and now I think that next year I will continue here."

The former Sporting Lisbon ace also admitted that Ferguson had played a crucial role in his decision to remain in England.

"He has been a key person. I respect him a lot, because it was him who signed me and he has played a very important part in all that I have won," said Ronaldo.

"In Lisbon I reached an agreement with him and it was decided that the best thing for all was to continue.

"He listened to my arguments and I listened to his. Now I understand that it was the correct decision. I am with Manchester United body and soul."

Content

Meanwhile, United supporters will also be delighted to hear Wayne Rooney committing his long-term future to the club.

The England international insists he has never contemplated moving abroad and would welcome the opportunity to see out his career at Old Trafford.

"Can you ever see me playing for a foreign team?" he said.

"I love England, I love being close to my family.

"I'm a northern lad and I'd like to think I could stay here for the rest of my career.

"The fans here at United appreciate players who give their all for the team and that's what I try do - and that's all I want to do."