The intrigue surrounding transfers in modern football is sensational to say the least. It now has the feel of Hollywood script writing. There is a bleep that sends the signal, then the media blitz, subdued at times and finally the response. The affirmation and denial cycling between Nou camp and the Emirates regarding Cesc Fabregas illustrates the evolution of 21st century pouching. As the fabulous drama endures, the theatrics around Jose Mourinho's potential move to Real Madrid is just starting. And there is perhaps no better personality to announce this unique courtship other than the most effective player at the Bernabeu this season, Christiano Ronaldo.


In an interview released today, Ronaldo lavish encomiums on the special one. The pick was, "I like him a lot, ...... He is very good coach". Nice words from the Bernabeu, but this signal hints at desperation. Mourinho is hardly the kind of coach at ease with the flamboyant style of Real Madrid. His tactics is dominated by the overwhelming desire to win at all cost, often with resort to negative tactics. While his emphasis on commitment is celebrated and admired, his physical style is unlikely to go well with the fans, particularly when compared to their domestic rivals Barcelona, who are seamlessly stretching the boundaries of the beautiful game.

Ronaldo's statement can also be seen in another light. One of the key players likely to be affected by Mourinho style is Christiano, with exuberant excesses that allow him to outshine his colleagues to the detriment of the team in more than a couple of crucial games this season. Are we previewing the onset of a subtle appeal by the Madrid star to the softer side of his future coach? A plausible possibility, but sadly the special one is too overbearing to take into special cognizance such flirtatious antics.