It also means a return to Old Trafford for Cristiano Ronaldo.

The two managers had a tradition of sharing a glass of red after their teams' encounters in the Premier League, although Ferguson described the first wine Mourinho gave him while at Chelsea as being "like paintstripper".

Of the draw, Ferguson said: "It's the tie of the round. It's a great opportunity for our fans to see Cristiano again and also for me to meet up with Jose – I'll need to order some good wine."

United will hope there was a lucky omen in the draw. Their one victory over Real Madrid in the European Cup was the year they first won the final, also at Wembley where next year's final will be held, in 1968.

Real Madrid director Emilio Butragueno said it would be a special match for Ronaldo – and the two managers.

He said: "It will be special for Cristiano. He's a great professional. I'm sure he's going to do his best to help us qualify. But he has affection for his old club."