Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Calderon still waiting on Ronaldo


Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon admits he can do little more as the club wait for Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo to decide on his future.

The Portuguese star has been tracked by Real all summer, although United are adamant they are not prepared to sell the man whose goals helped them to Barclays Premier League and Champions League glory last season.

Ronaldo has refused to confirm where his future lies and Calderon told Spanish sports daily AS: "Look, this is a problem that wasn't created by Real Madrid. That which is exaggerated or not about this signing is down to those who've given it as read that the deal is closed and not by us. Madrid are just spectators in this soap opera."

He added: "At the moment Manchester United and the player are in an argument and Madrid are waiting...and we can't do any more for the time being.

"Obviously, it's clear that we want Cristiano with the quality that he has. But there is a contractual problem that United and the player have to resolve, not us.

"Will he persuade the club to let him go? I can't say that. That question's for the player, who has publicly said his dream is to play for Madrid.

"We hear those words with pride and satisfaction, but his departure doesn't only depend on Cristiano. United are the ones that have to sort it out and it will either happen or not."

Ronaldo, who is recovering from ankle surgery, is yet to return to Manchester, but Calderon believes when he finally does it could be decisive for player and club.

"It could happen then, but it's true that we have to wait developments," he continued. "Everyone's thinking so much about this matter that people can get confused and I understand that they're fed up.

"They (United and Ronaldo) will talk next week and if after this conversation United decide to sell him, then of course Madrid will be there."