Despite all the glory and success that Cristiano Ronaldo has enjoyed since joining Real Madrid, our former number seven still hails his time at Manchester United as the most beautiful time in his career.

Alex Ferguson was a father for me in football. I learned many things, not just from the coach but the players. I improved not just my skills but my body too. In the five years that I was [at United] I learned the art of football. It was a dream for me.

I remember when I left Lisbon for England, Alex Ferguson said to me, ‘Listen, I want you to take the No 7’. I was surprised because I knew the guys who wore that shirt. I accepted the challenge, it was great. It was the beginning of my success in football. It was probably one of the most beautiful moments in my career so far.