Cristiano Ronaldo

SPORTING LISBON

Sporting Lisbon has a world famous youth development programme that has unearthed some amazing football talent such as Luis Figo, João Moutinho, Miguel Veloso, Paulo Futre and more recently Nani. Other players who have passed through there doors but left for other teams include Ricardo Quaresma, Simao Sabrosa, Miguel, Hugo Viana and Caneira.
They boast some of the most impressive facilities for youth development in the world. Cristiano Ronaldo had the chance to shine during the trials he had there and he delivered. During one game he took the ball round three players before lofting a perfect cross into the box and everybody knew there & then he was something special. At the end of the game the other players swarmed round him and congratulated his performance.

It wasn’t always easy for the young Ronaldo as he was constantly teased over his Madeiran accent by the local lads. But that taught him to stand up for himself and not be intimidated by other people. Moving to Sporting was a big step for the young kid but the right decision. Over the course of a few seasons he had developed into a special talent.

Cristiano Ronaldo would practice dribbling with weights tied to his feet so his feet would become faster. This unique training method certainly made some impact as the now trademark step over and teasing tricks were starting to develop. Jose Mourinho watched the young Ronaldo play for Sporting’s youth team and said “there goes Van Bastern’s son”. Jose described him as having amazing skill for a player of his age, good movement, great technique, really eloquent. He stood out from the rest.

Ronaldo made his way into the Sporting Lisbon history books. In one season he played for the under16’s, under 17’s, under 18’s, B-team and first team. An incredible achievement which highlights the speed he was developing. He spent two seasons with the first team playing a total of 25 games and scoring 3 goals. The big opportunity to further his career came during a friendly match against Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United.

Before the game his best friend told him to play your best and impress them, they might sign you. Well he certainly did that and by half time the Manchester United players were asking there boss to sign him. Ronaldo demonstrated his ability by terrorising the united defence attacking down both flanks. One for thing was for sure after this game; Ronaldo would be going to a top European club soon.

Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Sporting Lisbon when he was 11 years old

Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Sporting Lisbon