And the presentations just keep on coming, it was Cristiano Ronaldo’s turn this time and he showed up looking quite orange (judging from images of him at his medical). In addition to all the bells and whistles that we’ve already become accustomed to from the previous two presentations, we also got a ‘skills with the ball’ show this time. The 1,2,3 Hala Madrid was a nice touch, but the kissing of the escudo seemed a bit fake to me. It wasn’t Ronaldo doing it that bothered me, it was the act itself – how loyal can anyone be to something they’ve belonged to for a matter of hours? And his status as a model (as opposed to a futbolista) was cemented when he took a stroll down the runway in front of 90,000 people (some of whom should have been at work, I bet).
I never really thought Ronaldo would be a good fit for Madrid, because I like players that are professional both on and off the field. And judging from the press I’ve read about his ‘accomplishments’ off the field (I admit that out of Britain I only read the tabloids), he didn’t seem the ideal player for Madrid, especially with Florentino and his behavior guide from the last time he was president. But I’m willing to be proved wrong, so Cristiano, please make me like you! Your smile, the obvious joy you were feeling at your presentation and hearing you speak Spanish already are a good start…
I also loved one of the signs seen at the stadium:
Benzema = 35M
Kaká = 65M
C. Ronaldo = 96M
Effing with Laporta = priceless!
For everything else, there is Florentino!!