Mark Hughes and former Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster had also been under consideration for the role after Guus Hiddink turned down the opportunity.

BBC: Sven-Goran Eriksson raring to go as Ivory Coast coach

Real coach Bernd Schuster claimed Ronaldo was their main summer transfer target, triggering United's initial threat of a complaint, while Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has accused the Spanish club of a "lack of morals" for allegedly unsettling the player.

BBC: Real deny Man Utd Ronaldo claims

But if (Real coach Bernd) Schuster wants to keep a player who is unhappy it is his responsibility.

BBC: Robinho intent on joining Chelsea