van Nistelrooy said: “United was a fantastic time in my life, not only the football but we met some wonderful people. I turned down the opportunity twice to come here during my United days but this time I could not say no.
“The history of the club is similar to United. You play at Old Trafford for the first time wearing a United shirt and it is unbelievable. Now I have the same feeling with Madrid.”
He added: “I owe him (Ferguson) a lot and respect him a lot.
“What happened wasn’t so big to not talk to him. I said my thing and we just have to move on. Many great players have left United and other clubs. You move to another stage in your career but the memories remain from five fantastic years.”
