Ruud lets emotion seep through

Ruud van Nistelrooy was unveiled as Real Madrid's latest signing at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium this evening and spoke emotionally of his time with former club Manchester United.

The transfer happened so quickly for the former PSV frontman and, appearing slightly uncomfortable in front of the press and fans, he noted that just 24 hours ago he had been in England as a Manchester United player not knowing where his future lay.

"So much has happened in the last day," the striker said.  "When I was talking to the press just after the President of Real Madrid introduced me I was feeling nervous. But after that I was happy to change into the Real kit and go down towards the fans. I felt really happy then."
 
Yet when asked what he had to say to Manchester United and the supporters he left behind, van Nistelrooy became quite emotional.

"For me, the relationship with the manager (Alex Ferguson) had ended and that was painful because I feel like I owe him a lot.

"He waited for me during my injury when I was at PSV. He gave me my chance and filled me with the confidence to play at the best level I have ever played and at the greatest club. But whatever happened happened and that good relationship came to an end. 
 
"In that sense it hasn't got anything to do with the club or the fans or the players. The relationship with a manager is very important and that just wasn't there anymore. In that situation the best thing to do was to leave.
 
"My affection and appreciation towards the fans and everyone at Manchester United will be with me forever. It's part of me. I was there for five years and they were the most incredible years and I will carry that with me for the rest of my life.  The fans there embraced me from the first minute and they never let go …... and that's …."

At that point van Nistelrooy's emotions seemed to get the better of him and his response ended abruptly.
 
But a question was quickly fired in that put the smile back on the Holland international's face.

"It's great to be playing alongside David again," he said of being reunited with former Old Trafford team-mate Beckham.

"The two years I played with him at United were incredible and I missed him during the last years after he left. He's a wonderful person and a great footballer.  We had a great connection on and off the pitch."
 
And what of fellow striker Ronaldo whom van Nistelrooy may well partner up front for the forthcoming season?

"He's a phenomenon. His qualities are world class. I'm looking forward to playing with him because he's such a fantastic player.,"
 
Asked whether he will produce the same form that transformed him into a legend at Old Trafford he stated: "I never set targets. I want to give my all in every game that I play. I demand the best from myself and that's the most important thing."