How to train a GOAT! Cristiano Ronaldo Man Utd challenge revealed by former assistant who advised Sir Alex Ferguson to sign Portuguese superstar

Queiroz was working alongside legendary Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson when the opportunity to sign Ronaldo presented itself in 2003. Two exciting talents on Sporting’s books were being considered at that time, but it was CR7 that ultimately made his way to Old Trafford.

Speaking to O Jogo, Queiroz has said of the advice that he offered which led to another iconic No.7 arriving in Manchester: “I was in my office and they called me to say that Ferguson needed me. At that time, I had no responsibility for scouting. I sat down in front of him. 'Here we are looking at two names from a club you know well and they are two Portuguese players. I want to know what you think. One is called Cristiano Ronaldo, the other Ricardo Quaresma', he told me. And I answered 'both', twice. Then, when I had to choose just one, I said it had to be Cristiano.”

That call proved to be particularly shrewd, with Ronaldo going on to become a Premier League, Champions League and Ballon d’Or winner with United. His first spell in England delivered 118 goals through 292 appearances in all competitions.

Queiroz added on how he set about unlocking the potential in Ronaldo’s game that has allowed him to go on and become an all-time great: “One day I called him into my office, when we were starting to introduce certain technological approaches. 'I have a challenge for you. You were born to be the best player in the world and that is a privilege, you should be grateful for that blessing. I am here to help you, but you have to tell me if you are available to work because, if you are not, I don't have the patience to waste time'. The next morning, he knocked on the door to ask when we were starting. He was always one of the first to arrive.”

Ronaldo has never looked back, with his relentless work ethic allowing a standing among the immortals to be taken up. At the age of 40, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is still going strong with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr and intends to reach 1,000 career goals before giving any thought to retirement.