Charlton criticises Real Madrid

Updated 12.24 Sun May 18 2008
Keywords: sir bobby charlton, cristiano ronaldo, manchester united, real madrid, spanish football, football, premier league, sport

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton has accused Real Madrid of "unethical" behaviour by declaring their interest in Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo has a long-term contract with United, but he has been the most outstanding player in European football this season and Real president Ramon Calderon has admitted he would like to sign the Portugal winger.

"They have not got the right to undermine the way we have helped this lad" - Sir Bobby Charlton

Ronaldo hinted last week that the speculation of a move is on his mind when he told a Spanish television station he will not think about his future before the Champions League final against Chelsea.

Sir Bobby is an ambassador for United and he is not impressed with the way the Spanish champions have spoken about Ronaldo.

He said: "It really irritates me how people can set rumours going and undermine people through the media. It's unethical.

"They have not got the right to undermine the way we have helped this lad."

Ronaldo joined United from Sporting Lisbon in 2003 at the age of 18.

He has since developed into one of the biggest stars in world football.

Sir Bobby added: "Everybody seems to think that Real Madrid or Barcelona are the two greatest clubs in the world. I don't think I have to tell Cristiano that Manchester United is the biggest club in the world."

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