Cristiano Ronaldo marked his return to Old Trafford in triumphant fashion, scoring a brace as Manchester United defeated Newcastle United 4-1. Despite it being his first game back in England, the five-time Ballon d’Or award winner has already inserted himself into the race for the Golden Boot.
The legendary number 7 started the game for Ole Gunnar Solskjær, and Ronaldo scored right before halftime to give his team the lead as they went into the tunnel for the break. The goal was a simple tap-in after Mason Greenwood’s shot was mishandled by the keeper. This allowed the striker to nudge the ball in as the stadium erupted in celebration.
Javi Manquillo equalised for Newcastle in the 56th minute, after being assisted by Allan Saint-Maximin. However, Ronaldo doubled his scoring on the other side of halftime, converting an assist by Luke Shaw at the hour mark.
Fellow countryman Bruno Fernandes and substitute Jesse Lingard were on the scoresheet for the Red Devils as they cruised to the top of the table after a comfortable victory against the Magpies. Ronaldo looked sharp as ever and had a spring in his step that was somewhat missing at Juventus.
While Manchester United’s all-around performance can be debated, Ronaldo’s return was exactly what fans hoped it would be. And to make things sweeter, they are also on top of the table right now. United will next be in action in the Champions League against Young Boys.
Their next Premier League fixture will be against West Ham United at the London Stadium.
