No Ronaldo but Real ready for treble tilt

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

MADRID (AFP) — Cristiano Ronaldo was supposed to be Real Madrid's secret weapon this season but the reigning Spanish champions must shrug off the disappointment of failing to capture the Portuguese sensation.

And now Real will be focusing on securing a third straight league title for the first time in 21 years.

Ronaldo openly admitted his desire to join Real but Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson had other ideas blocking the transfer to leave Real counterpart Bernd Schuster frustrated.

"We have to respect his decision. He was free to do what he wanted and it is a shame that he will not be joining us because he is a player that would have improved what is already a great team," said Schuster.

"But we have a superb side to start the league with...