Sir Alex Ferguson Hails Ronaldo and Rooney Partnership as Europe's Best

The Best in Europe

Sir Alex Ferguson has declared that Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney were the two best players in Europe during their peak years together at Manchester United.

After failing to win the league title for three seasons, United bounced back to win three consecutive Premier League trophies between 2006 and 2009. This golden run occurred just before Ronaldo departed for Real Madrid.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Ferguson recalled that special era. He said that at the time, he believed those two were the best in Europe. He added that it was a fantastic period for the club, which included winning the European Cup in Moscow in 2008.

A Devastating Partnership

It took some time for the two young stars to settle in, especially Ronaldo. However, by the 2006 to 2007 season, they had formed a deadly partnership. Over three seasons, the duo scored a combined 104 Premier League goals.

One of their most famous moments came against Bolton in March 2007. They combined to score a legendary counter attacking goal, moving the ball from their own penalty box to the opponent's net in less than ten seconds.

Ferguson remembered how the young player from Liverpool and the tall kid from Portugal linked up perfectly. He described how they passed the ball back and forth up the pitch before finishing with an unbelievable chip over the goalkeeper.

Trophies and Individual Glory

During their time together at Old Trafford, the pair helped Manchester United achieve massive success. They won three Premier League titles, one Champions League, two League Cups, and a Club World Cup.

Ronaldo also swept the individual honors. In 2008, the Portuguese forward won the Ballon d'Or, the European Golden Boot, the FIFA Best Men's Player award, and the UEFA Best Player award.

What it means for the next game

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur (Premier League, Sat, 10 Oct): Manchester United win 55%, draw 23%, Tottenham Hotspur win 22%; expected goals 1.96 to 1.16. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Atlético Madrid vs Manchester United (Champions League, Tue, 13 Oct): Atlético Madrid win 47%, draw 25%, Manchester United win 28%; expected goals 1.74 to 1.30. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.