Cristiano Ronaldo has panned critics of his $80million transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid, saying: "I'm worth it." 
Ronaldo doesn't do self-doubt
It comes as big spending club president Florentino Perez vowed to sign two more players – while offloading 10 footsoldiers from the ranks of his galacticos.
Portugal winger Ronaldo, who has been described by Perez as one of two pillars of his new project alongside Brazilian Kaka, told Spanish daily Marca on Saturday that he was "happy to be the most expensive player in the world."
Well spent
"I respect everyone's opinion but I don't agree with these people," Ronaldo said of critics of the fee.
"If Real Madrid have paid so much money it is because they wanted me and considered it good value.
"I am going to do all I can to play well and prove the money they paid for me has been well spent."
France striker Karim Benzema and Spain defender Raul Albiol have also been added to the squad in a spending spree worth around $300million, drawing criticism from governments, rival teams and Uefa president Michel Platini.
"I think it is a fair price. If Real and Manchester United agreed this amount, there is nothing more to say," said Ronaldo.
"Great footballers cost a lot of money and if you want them you have to pay for them. I am happy to be the most expensive player in the world."
The 24-year-old said he would have fond memories of his time at United and singled out manager Alex Ferguson for special praise.
Father figure
"He has been like a sporting father to me, one of the most important factors and most influential in my career," Ronaldo said.
"I have to thank him for everything he taught me...the way of thinking, the way of making choices in my life...he has been fundamental.
"He will always occupy a special place in my heart."
Ronaldo will be officially presented as a Real player at the Bernabeu stadium on Monday, with Perez saying there will be two more unveilings to follow.
Real forward Cristiano Ronaldo
"We need to concentrate our efforts on convincing some players that they will have to leave.
"It should not be forgotten there is a World Cup next summer and all our players want to play in it.
"If players aren't going to have the chance to participate here they'll want to do it somewhere else, to be able to make it to the World Cup.
"As to new signings, I think with two more we would have sufficient."
Perez was asked about Real's interest in Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery and Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso.
"They are both great players but their clubs don't want to sell them, though in the world of football situations can change," he said.
Real have already sold Javier Saviola, and the Dutch contingent of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, Royston Drenthe and Klaas Jan Huntelaar are all reportedly on the market.
Tags: Real Madrid Ronaldo