ZURICH – Manchester United and Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo was on Monday named FIFA World Footballer of the Year for 2008.
Ronaldo, who is also holder of the prestigious Ballon d’Or for the European Footballer of the Year, beat off competition from 2007 winner Kaka (Brazil), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Fernando Torres (Spain) and Xavi (Spain).
‘It’s an overwhelming moment in my career and I’d like to dedicate this award to my family, friends and colleagues,’ he said.
‘Winning the Champions League for me was the most memorable moment of 2008,’ added Ronaldo, who scored in the final but missed a penalty in the penalty shootout against Chelsea.
Ronaldo went out of his way to heap praise on United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, with whom relations became strained during last summer over whether he was going to leave the club for Real Madrid.
‘It’s also true that the manager always has an important role to play,’ said Ronaldo.
‘It was a great season for me and for my club, and the coach was important for me because I learned a lot from him.
‘His experience over so many years is of paramount importance – it’s a privilege to have such a great club manager.
‘This is the climax of a fantastic era for me. I’m happy and proud about what has been done by my team and what we have won.
‘I am lucky to be part of the history of a club like Manchester United.’
Ronaldo, scorer of 42 goals in all competitions in the 2007-8 season, was one of United’s architects behind the club’s English Premiership and Champions League double. – Nampa-AFP
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