Former Real Madrid defender Cicinho has recalled choosing the Spanish giants ahead of Manchester United 16 years ago.

Although he was close to moving to United from Sao Paulo, Cicinho ultimately signed with Real Madrid and he has explained why.

"Today marks 16 years since my arrival at Real Madrid," he posted on social media on Tuesday.

"Sorry Sir Alex Ferguson, but in 2005 Roberto Carlos called me and asked me if I wanted to come play with him on the Galacticos team.

"Almost everything was ready for me to go to Manchester United, but how could I say 'no' to the opportunity to join Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos,[Zinedine] Zidane, [Luis} Figo, [David] Beckham, Robinho, Raul, Julio Baptista, [Iker] Casillas, Sergio Ramos and co.?"