The moment Cristiano Ronaldo proved he’s still an asset to Man Utd
Robin Bairner
- 5 Sept 2022 14:48 BST
- 3 min read
Cristiano Ronaldo may not have scored the opening goal on Sunday as Manchester United defeated Arsenal 3-1 at Old Trafford to claim a fourth successive victory, but the forward’s reaction to Antony’s goal proved beyond doubt that he remains an asset to the Red Devils.
There may have been fears that Ronaldo would not have been invested in the team after spending the summer transfer window pushing to leave the club, yet his reaction to the Brazilian’s debut strike for Man Utd shows that he remains as committed and as professional as ever.
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Antony struck just before the break with a smart finish to send the Red Devils on their way to victory, and in celebration Ronaldo took to his feet, clapping his hands over head. The Portugal international looked genuinely delighted for his colleague.
In the circumstances, it was an impressive reaction from Ronaldo. He has started only one of Man Utd’s six Premier League matches this season – a 4-0 loss against Brentford away from home – and given the way the team is presently playing, there is little suggestion of him winning a place back in the starting XI anytime soon.
Ronaldo's reaction positive for Man Utd
Seeing Ronaldo, then, looking delighted for his colleague only bodes well for what Manchester United can achieve this season.
He must realise that his own personal statistics, which have been such a source of pride throughout his career, are bound to take a hit. Indeed, a majority of fans believe he might not even hit double figures for the season. That would be an embarrassing blow for such a prolific player.
But it appears that Ronaldo is ready to put his own personal goals to one side for the good of the team.
And, as manager Erik ten Hag has promised, Ronaldo will get his chance, probably starting on Thursday in the Europa League home match with Real Sociedad.
