Manchester United v Real Madrid: not ideal for Sir Alex Ferguson

20 December 2012 12:02

Sky Sports pundits Jamie Redknapp and Ray Wilkins both agreed that this was the Champions League tie Sir Alex Ferguson would have wanted to avoid.

Former United star Wilkins said: “This is a clash between two of the greatest clubs in European history, but it is a horrible draw for United.

“I’m sure we are in for two fantastic games, and it is imperative United come back from Madrid with a chance, and not be annihilated.”

Former Liverpool and England midfielder Redknapp added: “I don’t think Sir Alex will be pleased to have been drawn with Real at this stage.

“But what a couple of matches we have in prospect. With Cristiano Ronaldo going back to United it only adds to the occasion.

“It will be also interesting to see how Jose Mourinho reacts going back to Old Trafford. Given his links with United, I don’t think he will act like he did when he was manager of Porto.”

Whilst most were hailing United-Real as the ‘tie of the round’ Sky pundit Charlie Nicholas was in raptures about his former club Celtic’s pairing with Juventus.

He said: “It is a magical draw and takes me back to the 80's when we played a Liam Brady-inspired Juventus in the competition.

“They beat us by three goals over there, but we beat them 2-0 at Parkhead to restore pride. It doesn’t get much better than this. It’s the ultimate challenge for Neil Lennon and the boys.”

Source: DSG