Cristiano Ronaldo’s Persuasion: How a Phone Call Steered Twin Stars to Manchester United, Snubbing Arsenal
Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with Manchester United, played a pivotal role in securing the signatures of not one, but two promising talents for the club. Interestingly, before becoming a legend at Old Trafford, Ronaldo himself was on Arsenal’s radar as a young prodigy emerging from Sporting CP. However, in a twist of fate, he chose Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United in 2003 for a £12.75 million fee, a decision that launched his journey to becoming a global superstar.
After winning his first Ballon d’Or in 2008, Ronaldo made a record-breaking £80 million move to Real Madrid in 2009, only to return to Manchester United for an eagerly anticipated second stint in 2021. But, between these iconic moves, Ronaldo’s influence extended beyond his own career path. He personally intervened to sway two burgeoning players towards Manchester United, directly impacting the club’s future.
Da Silva Twins: Arsenal Interest Derailed by Ronaldo’s Manchester United Call
The story unfolds with Brazilian twin brothers, Rafael and Fabio da Silva, then emerging talents from Fluminense’s youth academy. Both Arsenal and Manchester United were keenly observing these dynamic full-backs. United’s scout, Les Kershaw, particularly impressed by their agility and skill, described them as “two little whippets.” Sir Alex Ferguson, renowned for his astute eye for talent, was urged to pursue the twins.
In February 2007, Manchester United successfully secured the signatures of Rafael and Fabio da Silva. Crucially, Cristiano Ronaldo played a decisive and personal role in this double transfer coup, tipping the scales in United’s favor against rival interest from Arsenal.
The Decisive Phone Call: Sealing the Manchester United Deal for Twin Defenders
Recalling the pivotal moment, Rafael da Silva shared his memory on the UTD Podcast, describing the unforgettable phone call from Ronaldo:
- Rafael received an unexpected international call, displaying numerous zeros on his phone screen.
- Initially confused, he answered and recognized Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he had previously trained with.
- Overwhelmed and excited, Rafael exclaimed “It’s Ronaldo, it’s Ronaldo!” to his brother Fabio, rushing to share the news.
- Ronaldo, in a casual and persuasive manner, described the Manchester weather, saying “It’s raining here in Manchester.”
- He then directly encouraged them to choose Manchester United, confidently stating, “Sign for Manchester United. I know you are going to like it.”
- Rafael was astonished and deeply moved by Ronaldo’s personal intervention.
This direct appeal from a Manchester United star, particularly one of Ronaldo’s stature, proved instrumental in convincing the Da Silva twins that their future lay at Old Trafford, rather than Highbury with Arsenal. The phone call highlighted the allure and prestige associated with Manchester United, especially when endorsed by a player of Cristiano Ronaldo’s caliber.
Twins Rafael and Fabio Da Silva both signed for Manchester United. Image: Getty
Ultimately, Rafael carved out a more distinguished career at Manchester United, making 170 appearances and establishing himself as the preferred right-back after Gary Neville’s retirement. His trophy cabinet includes Premier League titles earned during his tenure at Old Trafford. Fabio, while also contributing to the team, had a less prominent role with 56 appearances and one medal before moving to Cardiff City.
Following their Manchester United stints, Fabio played for Middlesbrough, Nantes, and Gremio, while Rafael went on to represent Lyon, Istanbul Basaksehir, and Botafogo, showcasing their careers beyond Old Trafford.
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