Real Madrid clear Champions League favourites

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson believes the acquisition of Ronaldo has once again made Real Madrid clear favourites to lift the Champions League.

The Spanish side won the tournament for the ninth time in Ferguson's home city of Glasgow last year, and he fears they will repeat the feat in this year's final - to be held at United's Old Trafford stadium.

"Real Madrid's mentality is all about winning the European Cup," he told reporters on Tuesday. "It seemed to me they weren't too bothered in the league last year because they knew the European Cup final was there for them.

"They have a team that can spend so much money that it leaves the rest of us gasping. One year they bring in (Luis) Figo, then (Zinedine) Zidane and now Ronaldo.

"They have mentality for buying like that and it makes it difficult for the rest of us to catch up. But it doesn't mean they will win the Champions League as you have to fit these players in.

"It will be difficult playing against them in the Bernabeu, but on a neutral ground you have a chance."

Meanwhile, Ferguson dismissed the idea that he has his heart set on taking United to a second Champions League title on their home ground next May.

"The thought hasn't even entered my head" he said.