Cristiano Ronaldo gave his first press conference as a Real Madrid player right after his official presentation.
What position would you like to play in?
I haven’t always played as a striker. I prefer to play down the wing, but I wouldn’t mind playing as a striker.
What word defines your presentation day?
Impressive.
Is it going to be hard for you to sleep today?
I’m sure I’ll sleep well. I’m tired.
What did you think of when you saw 80,000 people at the stadium?
It was a beautiful sensation. I loved it. I didn’t expect the stadium to be full. This is a dream come true. I thought of my parents. I felt the fans are fond of me already. I want to pay them back for that. I know I’ll feel more pressure here than at Manchester United, but I have faith in myself and I am ambitious. I want the league to begin to do my absolute best.
What would you like to say to the people at Manchester United?
I think about my former team-mates and bosses. I had a great relationship with them for six years. My team-mates respect my decision. Real Madrid is a dream and a great challenge to me. This is my new home and I will give 100% for this shirt.
What did Di Stefano say to you?
It was very special to meet him. He is a legend. It was the same as meeting Bobby Charlton at Manchester United. He wished me luck. I am very grateful to him. It was one of the best moments of my life.
What do you think of the money your transfer has cost?
I’ve always said a club must pay a lot of money to get the best players. I want to prove that they made the right decision. I understand many of the comments that have been made, but I’m happy for being the most expensive player in the Club’s history. It makes me feel proud.
Did you think about how hard it’s been for you to get here when you entered the dressing room?
Yes. To play for Real Madrid was my life’s ambition. I wanted to change clubs and this is the one I regard to be the best. It is special to kiss this shirt for the first time. I felt special emotions.
Will you make Real Madrid win the European Cup again?
I won’t play alone. I will be part of the team and I will do my best to help it win the Champions League. We have a great team and a great coach. We will take things slowly at first and then we’ll think about the Champions League. We have to do a good job.
