Ronaldinho reveals why he snubbed Manchester United

Brazil legend, Ronaldinho has revealed he was 48 hours away from joining Manchester United.

Ronaldinho was linked with a move to Old Trafford in 2003 as a replacement for Real Madrid-bound David Beckham, but ended up signing for the Catalans.

Beckham had initially been wanted by incoming Barca president Sandro Rosell, but after he joined Real, Rosell moved for Ronaldinho – but only after he had spoken with United.

“It almost happened. It was a matter of 48 hours but Sandro Rosell had told me way before I got the offer: ‘If I become Barca president, will you come?’ I said yes,” Ronaldinho told FourFourTwo.

“It was only a matter of details with United when Rosell called to say he was going to win the elections there. And I had promised to him that I’d play for Barca… It was a quick negotiation.

“I told the English I had chosen Barca. It was the right choice. Brazilians have always loved Barça. We have a history there. Off the pitch it is like nowhere else in Europe, so we are always happy playing there. I miss Barcelona a lot,” he added.