CRISTIANO RONALDO will match Iker Casillas’ Champions League appearance record when he plays for Manchester United today.
The Portuguese superstar, 36, has been thrust into the starting XI for United’s first group stage game against Swiss side Young Boys, having only made his second ‘debut’ at the weekend.
And today’s match marks Ronaldo’s 177th Champions League appearance – equalling the record held by Real Madrid legend Casillas.
Ronnie already holds the title for most Champions League goals, netting 134 times in the competition.
And he is now just one game away from becoming the outright record holder for appearances too.
It will be yet another personal success for Ronaldo, who this month became the all-time leading international goalscorer with Portugal.
Ronaldo rejoined United on transfer deadline day from Juventus in a stunning move.
And he made his first Red Devils appearance since 2009 in Saturday’s 4-1 Premier League win over Newcastle, scoring twice in front of a jubilant Old Trafford crowd.
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Ronnie has already laid down the gauntlet to teammates, setting his sights on the title with an inspiring speech exclusively revealed by SunSport.
But he is sure to be targeting even more success in Europe.
Ronaldo led United to glory in the 2008 Champions League final against Chelsea.
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And he went on to win a further FOUR with Real Madrid.
Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said he will be looking to manage Ronaldo’s minutes due to his advancing years.
But by starting him against Young Boys, it send a clear message that United and Ronaldo are eager to bring the Champions League back to Old Trafford in 2022.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
