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      Man Utd’s best and worst No 7s ever from George Best to Angel Di Maria as Ronaldo prepares to pull on famous shirt

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO will return to Old Trafford on Saturday — and rightfully reclaims the iconic No 7 shirt he graced in his first stint.It was made famous by George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona and David Beckham — producing their own thrilling football with the number on their backs.
      Cristiano Ronaldo is BACK at Man Utd – and back in that famous No7 shirtCredit: Manchester United FC
      But for many who have worn it since Ronaldo and his CR7 brand left in 2009, it has also proved a heavy burden.
      Here, SunSport’s Manchester United reporter NEIL CUSTIS looks at the hits and misses in that magical jersey.
      HITS
      GEORGE BEST (1963-74)
      In full flight, there was no more thrilling sight — perhaps until Ronaldo himself came along.
      The first flickering black-and- white images of Best on the ball helped to make Manchester United the global name it is today.
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      When you consider the pitches the 1968 European Cup winner worked his magic on as well, it makes his skill all the more remarkable.
      In his time at the club he made 470 appearances — scoring 179 goals.
      George Best is almost as iconic to football as Man Utd areCredit: PA:Press Association
      BRYAN ROBSON (1981-94)
      The original Captain Marvel will forever be revered for his swashbuckling displays — many of which have gone down in the annals of history at Old Trafford.
      And the 1983-84 European Cup Winners Cup quarter-final was the greatest of all, as Diego Maradona’s Barcelona came to Manchester with a 2-0 lead from the first leg.
      Cue Robson’s greatest night. He inspired United to a remarkable 3-0 win, scoring twice himself. He never left anything out there.
      Bryan Robson was captain fantastic for UnitedCredit: Getty – Contributor
      DAVID BECKHAM (1992-2003)
      It is a shame for him that his looks and celebrity status are talked about so much, that his actual footballing ability can be forgotten.
      But there are few to match him when it came to delivering a dead ball, crosses from the wing or balls through from deep, with the speed and accuracy that he did.
      He never did tap-ins either, with an eye for the spectacular — starting from the day he delivered that famous goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon.
      David Beckham racked up a brilliant number of assists during his time at UnitedCredit: Getty
      ERIC CANTONA (1992-1997)
      The catalyst for the Sir Alex glory years. With his collar up and that strut he brought a swagger and arrogance to a side that needed a spark having blown the title in 1992 — to Cantona’s Leeds.
      Glory followed him to Old Trafford, where in five years he won four titles and two FA Cups, scoring 82 goals in 185 appearances.
      And just like that he was gone again — but certainly never to be forgotten.
      Eric Cantona will go down in United folklore as an integral part of the clubCredit: PA
      STEVE COPPELL (1975-1983)
      Not as high profile and headline-grabbing as some others — but those who watched Coppell fly down the wing in the Seventies and Eighties will testify as to why his name should be up there.
      He wore that No 7 in three FA Cup finals, including the 2-1 victory over Liverpool in 1977.
      Steve Coppell was a speedy winger who gave the opposition nightmaresCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      MISSES
      MEMPHIS DEPAY (2015-2017)
      It says everything about where Barcelona are at now that the Dutchman plies his trade there.
      He was pursued by Liverpool and Arsenal before Louis van Gaal persuaded him to come to United.
      Eighteen forgettable months later, the winger was gone.
      He moaned early on about having to play two games a week and never lived up to his billing.
      Probably best remembered for arriving on international duty dressed like a ‘Peruvian pan flute player’, according to Dutch coach Co Adriaanse.
      Big things were expected from Memphis when he arrived at Old Trafford – but he never deliveredCredit: Getty
      ANGEL DI MARIA (2014-2015)
      Goodness me, Van Gaal picked them, didn’t he?
      To be fair, Di Maria’s failed spell at Old Trafford was as much down to Van Gaal as the player, who he tried to shackle with his mind-numbing tactics.
      Let’s leave it to Di Maria to talk about the honour of wearing the famous shirt: “I didn’t give a f*** about the Manchester United No 7, at first they talked to me a lot about it — it was just a shirt.
      “My problem at Manchester was the coach. Van Gaal was the worst of my career.” Fair to say no statues are planned.
      Angle Di Maria endured a torrid spell at Man Utd – but blamed the managerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ALEXIS SANCHEZ (2018-2020)
      Never has so much been paid to deliver so little. His attitude stank — and so did his performances.
      The most expensive free transfer in history, as Henrikh Mkhitaryan went the other way in January 2018.
      He cost United over £60million in wages, add-ons, signing-on fees etc and his return was 45 appearances and five goals. They could not get him out the door quick enough.
      Alexis Sanchez had a terrible time of it at Old Trafford after joining from ArsenalCredit: Getty – Contributor

      MICHAEL OWEN (2009-2012)
      Given that he arrived on a pay-as-you-play deal, it is fair to say the striker did not cost United quite as much as Sanchez.
      Owen scored just five Prem goals for United. But he will never be forgotten for that last-gasp goal in a 4-3 win in one of the greatest Manchester derbies of all time in 2009.
      Still, for someone so heavily connected with arch rivals Liverpool, the United No 7 just didn’t sit right on his shoulders for many fans.
      Michael Owen also wore the No7 – but wasn’t the player he once wasCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
      Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed as number 7 with new Man Utd shirt More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo smashes shirt sales records in hours after Man Utd squad number was announced by club

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO has smashed shirt sale records after his sensational return to Manchester United.Fans queued up outside Old Trafford to get their hands on the ‘Ronaldo No7’ shirt – and records have already been broken before he has kicked a ball.
      This United fan was delighted to get her hands on a new shirtCredit: Zenpix
      The supporter’s wheel on her wheelchair was a tribute to the superstarCredit: Zenpix
      Ronaldo’s return to Man Utd has brought a huge buzz to the clubCredit: Zenpix
      Fans queued as soon as the announcement was made that Ronaldo would be back on No7Credit: Zenpix
      In just four hours following the announcement that Ronaldo would wear the iconic shirt, United’s online store surpassed the highest day of sales ever on a single sports merchandise site outside of North America.
      The club’s online shop is run by Fanatics, who work with more than 300 clubs around the world and top sports leagues.
      The first hour of sales alone surpassed the best ever full day of global sales for United Direct, the official club merchandise site.
      Across the Fanatics network, Ronaldo became the biggest selling player ever in the 24 hours following a transfer to a new club.
      He overtook Lionel Messi joining PSG, Bryce Harper moving to Philadelphia Phillies in baseball, Tom Brady joining Tampa Bay Buccaneers in American football and LeBron James to LA Lakers in basketball.
      But some United fans just wanted to head down to Old Trafford to hand over their cash in the official club shop.
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      Edinson Cavani agreed to let Ronaldo have his old No7 shirt backCredit: Manchester United FC
      United fans will feel the signing of Ronaldo will put them right in the title huntCredit: Zenpix
      Online shirt sales for Ronaldo No7 are the highest outside North America for the Fanatics-managed megastoresCredit: Zenpix

      One disabled superfan even had a Ronaldo montage on the wheel of her wheelchair, beaming as she held her new shirt.
      It comes as Ronny flew in by private jet for his Manchester United return — and set up home in a stunning multi- million pound mansion.
      The Portuguese superstar’s plane touched down at the city’s airport at 5.40pm on Thursday after travelling from Faro.
      SunSport exclusively revealed that he was met on the runway by United officials and a security team and whisked away to a seven- bedroom countryside hideaway.

      The luxury property boasts a high-tech fitness complex complete with pool and jacuzzi — allowing Ronaldo to work on his fitness ahead of his Old Trafford homecoming next Saturday against Newcastle United.
      A six-strong security team has accompanied him and is patrolling the property, which the club has rented after they pulled off his stunning £12.85million transfer.
      Ronaldo, 36, will spend five days in quarantine before going to United’s Carrington training ground to meet his new team-mates on Wednesday.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
      The queues kept growing outside Old TraffordCredit: Zenpix
      One fans already had a Ronaldo scarf – and was soon to add the shirt to his collectionCredit: Zenpix
      Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed as number 7 with new Man Utd shirt More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo tells new Man Utd team-mates he wants Prem title THIS SEASON as returning legend issues rallying cry

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO has already issued a rallying call to his new Manchester United team-mates and told them ‘I’m here to win’.The five times Ballon d’Or winner has made clear that he wants to bag another Premier League title, to the delight of the squad.
      Cristiano Ronaldo has told the Red Devils squad he wants to win the Prem title againCredit: Reuters
      Ronaldo has issued a rallying call to his new Man Utd team-matesCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo, 36, landed in Manchester on Thursday and is expected to train at Carrington for the first time on Wednesday once he completes a five-day quarantine period.
      But prior to joining Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad, he has already sent his expectations via Portuguese compatriot Bruno Fernandes.
      A source said: “The players are so excited about the arrival of Ronaldo. They have been given this huge boost, and they feel very confident.
      “The players and coaching staff now believe they have the best squad in the league and can win the Premier League this season.
      “Ronaldo has also spoken to Bruno Fernandes and told him to tell the other players that they need to win it this year.
      “They need to work hard and start to believe in themselves. The players have not stopped talking about Ronaldo since he signed and they can’t wait to train and play alongside.

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      “He is like a God to them. From the fans to the players to the tea lady at the training ground, the club is electrified at the moment.
      “Lots of the staff who looked after Ronaldo when he arrived at the club as a shy teenager are still there and looking forward to welcoming him back.
      “Everyone is proud of what he has achieved in his career and they will be so happy if he manages to bring the good times back to Old Trafford.”
      United splashed out an initial £12.85 million plus £6.85m in add-ons for Ronaldo and have handed him the iconic No 7 shirt.

      He made his debut after coming on as a sub with a dazzling display which George Best hailed as ‘the most exciting debut’ he had ever seen.
      He went on to become a fan favourite during a six year stint at the club during which he won the Premier League three times, the Champions League, the FA Cup, the League Cup twice and the Fifa Club World Cup.
      He scored 118 goals in 292 games before moving to Real Madrid for £80 million and spent nine seasons in Spain before moving to Juventus in 2018. 
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford

      Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed as number 7 with new Man Utd shirt More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo tells Man Utd team-mates he wants Prem title THIS SEASON as returning legend issues rallying cry

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO has already issued a rallying call to his new Manchester United team-mates and told them ‘I’m here to win’.The five times Ballon d’Or winner has made clear that he wants to bag another Premier League title, to the delight of the squad.
      Cristiano Ronaldo has told the Red Devils squad he wants to win the Prem title againCredit: Reuters
      Ronaldo has issued a rallying call to his new Man Utd team-matesCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo, 36, landed in Manchester on Thursday and is expected to train at Carrington for the first time on Wednesday once he completes a five-day quarantine period.
      But prior to joining Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad, he has already sent his expectations via Portuguese compatriot Bruno Fernandes.
      A source said: “The players are so excited about the arrival of Ronaldo. They have been given this huge boost, and they feel very confident.
      “The players and coaching staff now believe they have the best squad in the league and can win the Premier League this season.
      “Ronaldo has also spoken to Bruno Fernandes and told him to tell the other players that they need to win it this year.
      “They need to work hard and start to believe in themselves. The players have not stopped talking about Ronaldo since he signed and they can’t wait to train and play alongside.

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      “He is like a God to them. From the fans to the players to the tea lady at the training ground, the club is electrified at the moment.
      “Lots of the staff who looked after Ronaldo when he arrived at the club as a shy teenager are still there and looking forward to welcoming him back.
      “Everyone is proud of what he has achieved in his career and they will be so happy if he manages to bring the good times back to Old Trafford.”
      United splashed out an initial £12.85 million plus £6.85m in add-ons for Ronaldo and have handed him the iconic No 7 shirt.

      He made his debut after coming on as a sub with a dazzling display which George Best hailed as ‘the most exciting debut’ he had ever seen.
      He went on to become a fan favourite during a six year stint at the club during which he won the Premier League three times, the Champions League, the FA Cup, the League Cup twice and the Fifa Club World Cup.
      He scored 118 goals in 292 games before moving to Real Madrid for £80 million and spent nine seasons in Spain before moving to Juventus in 2018. 
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford

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      Cristiano Ronaldo WASN’T Man Utd’s top signing of a transfer window that was surprisingly good even without a midfielder

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      IT’S been a long and thrilling summer, but the transfer window has come to an end.Manchester United were one of the busiest teams as they made four new signings and offloaded seven players.
      Manchester United had a productive summer window, with the club signing four playersCredit: PA
      For once, there were signs going into the transfer market that the club had clearly identified which areas they were looking to address and strengthen.
      Because of the proactive planning from the board it resulted with the business being done with ease and no panic buys on deadline day. 
      With the Glazers and the key members at Old Trafford deciding to act like a big club once and for all, they have left United’s supporters with a very satisfied summer and no room for complaints. 
      Without further ado, it’s time to grade the club’s summer business…

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      TOM HEATON – GOALKEEPER
      Given that Sergio Romero’s time at the club has come to an end and Lee Grant is focused on completing his coaching badges, the Red Devils could not have asked for a better third-choice goalkeeper than Tom Heaton.
      The 35-year-old returns to Old Trafford 11 years after leaving for Cardiff City as a free agent, due to lack of game time offered at United.  
      Heaton had a productive summer where he showed off his qualities in the pre-season fixtures, and it comes as a surprise that he was not attracting the interest of mid-table teams before joining United.
      Nevertheless, the goalkeeper has been at the club during the days of the Sir Alex Ferguson era, his presence and experience will be vital in the dressing room.
      It is expected of him to be more of an influential individual for the team off the pitch than actually on it.
      Rating – C
      Tom Heaton joined the Red Devils on a free transfer to become the club’s third-choice goalkeeperCredit: Getty
      JADON SANCHO – RIGHT WINGER
      After failing to sign the forward last summer, the club succeeded at the second time of asking and found themselves saving £30million by buying him a year later.
      More importantly, the side have finally got a creator and a huge attacking threat from the right-wing, something they have missed since Antonio Valencia last played there.  
      United already boast a number of talented attacking youngsters within the squad, however, the versatile Sancho is capable of producing something out of nothing.
      It will take him a couple of months to settle into English football in general, but once he does so, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be having a selection headache and Manchester City will be watching on with jealousy. 
      Rating – A-
      England international Jadon Sancho has featured in all three of United’s opening Premier League gamesCredit: PA
      RAPHAEL VARANE – CENTRE-BACK
      United’s signing of the summer has to be Raphael Varane, purely based on how he has instantly improved the backline and how his presence will limit the side’s ongoing issues within midfield.
      Although the focus will be on the signings of the attackers in Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo, if the side do have a successful season, it would be due to the intelligent output of the Frenchman. 
      Noting that he is a proven winner with France and Real Madrid, Varane enters the Premier League as one of the best centre-backs in England and Europe too.
      Partnering with Harry Maguire at the heart of defence, he is anticipated to help the back-four become unbreakable.
      Rating – A*
      Raphael Varane started in the Red Devils’ 1-0 win away at Wolves last SundayCredit: Getty
      CRISTIANO RONALDO – CENTRE-FORWARD
      The signing of Ronaldo addresses the need of a player to deliver at least 20 league goals a season as well as someone who can encourage and motivate the other players to perform at a higher and consistent level.
      From time to time, the side have lacked individuals that speak out and raise their voices on the pitch, however, they will no longer have this issue with Ronaldo’s return. 
      Given the love and support he has from the fans, along with how United hijacked Manchester City’s move for the 36-year-old in the final hours, there is huge expectations on him to help the side challenge for the Premier League and Champions League.
      And if there is one specific player that can take the club back to the top level of football, it is Cristiano Ronaldo. 
      Rating – A 
      Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to the Theatre of Dreams 12 years after departing for Real MadridCredit: Getty

      OVERALL
      It’s been a dominant window for United, a type of summer that the majority of the club’s supporters were not expecting and are not used to.
      A huge positive along with the big-name signings is that Paul Pogba remains at the club for the time being, despite the constant rumours linking him to Paris Saint-Germain, who could now land him as a free agent next summer. 

      However, without the signing of a holding midfielder the transfer window cannot be given 10/10.
      As seen in United’s recent outings, the side are lacking intelligence, composure, and quality in the middle of the pitch, which could cause them to fall short in their long path to success. 
      Overall rating – A
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
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      Man Utd face paying Erling Haaland eye-watering £825k-a-WEEK after Chelsea quoted staggering price for Dortmund star

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      SUPER AGENT Mino Raiola reportedly demanded wages of £825,000-a-WEEK for Erling Haaland this summer – as well as £34m fee for himself.The Borussia Dortmund striker, 21, was heavily linked with a move away from Signal Iduna Park following his goalscoring exploits for the Bundesliga side.
      Norway international Erling Haaland could depart Borussia Dortmund in 2022Credit: EPA
      Manchester United, City, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich were all believed to be keen on securing his services.
      Attention will now turn towards 2022 with the Norway international now available for just £64million due to a clause in his contract.
      It was recently claimed how clubs were put off signing Haaland in the recent transfer window after being told he would cost £500million over five years.
      And now Sport Bild reporter Christian Falk has revealed the whopping demands his agent Raiola was seeking for his client.
      Not only were potential suitors informed they would have to pay Haaland £825k-a-week in wages, but they were also informed of his agent fee.
      Falk has declared that Raiola himself was seeking a staggering £34m for brokering the transfer.

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      SunSport understands that both the Red Devils and the Citizens will go head-to-head for his signature next summer.
      Despite United’s recent signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, the club remain on the lookout for a centre-forward.
      Meanwhile City are still yet to replace Sergio Aguero, and having come up short in their quest to sign Harry Kane, a striker will be Pep Guardiola’s priority.

      But despite the furore surrounding Haaland’s future, Dortmund boss Marco Rose is confident he’ll see out the remainder of his contract in Germany.
      He told Bild: “He still has a long-term contract with us [until 2024].
      “Just because the public is constantly talking about him leaving next summer, that doesn’t necessarily have to be the case.”

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      Man Utd ‘facing Cristiano Ronaldo shirt shortage’ after supply chain problems for Adidas kit due to Covid-19

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      IT IS the shirt every Manchester United fan wants – but the club are facing a nightmare shortage of replica Cristiano Ronaldo replica kits.The legendary Portuguese forward completed his remarkable return to Old Trafford on Tuesday’s transfer deadline day from Juventus.
      Man Utd are facing a nightmare shortage of replica Cristiano Ronaldo kitsCredit: AP
      Most fans of the Red Devils will be clamouring to get a shirt donning his name and numberCredit: Getty
      Supporters are already counting down the seconds until they see the 36-year-old in action for the Red Devils again with the icon’s second coming due to be against Newcastle on Saturday week.
      However, not many of those lucky enough to be in the Theatre of Dreams are likely to sporting United’s shirt donned with the name and number of their messiah.
      The Independent claims the shortage is ‘due to Covid-influenced delays in Adidas’ supply line coinciding with the rush’ after the signing of Ronaldo.
      They had already experienced a significant slowdown in production due to the closure of factories in Vietnam – which could cause a potentially four-month delay. 
      The Asian nation normally contributes 28 per cent of Adidas’ total production.
      The sports manufacturer had made a contingency but today’s report claims that Ronaldo’s comeback to United has changed the situation with a drop-off now expected.

      A spokesman for Adidas told The Independent: “We are working in collaboration with MUFC to try and meet exceptionally high fan demand for our new designs but expect low availability of certain products.”
      Adidas are set to be in the money once they do meet demand, with United’s shirt deal reportedly meaning they will receive just £5 from each of Ronaldo’s shirt sales following his return to the club.
      Man Utd signed a 10-year contract with adidas worth £750m back in 2014, the biggest kit deal ever seen in world football.
      And while the finer details of the deal are undisclosed, it has been reported that it is ‘very unlikely’ Man Utd will see any more than 10 per cent of a shirt sale.
      On the other hand, the German sportswear giant could make their £750m investment back on shirt sales alone.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford

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      Man Utd transfer news: Cristiano Ronaldo to head back to Manchester early, Sancho injured on England duty – updates

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      DEADLINE DAY has been and gone with Manchester United completing the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo from Juventus.The Portuguese icon, 36, has been confirmed as a United player once again after moving back to England.
      Ronaldo is also set to take back his famous No 7 shirt from Edinson Cavani and could even take penalty duties off the ever-reliable Bruno Fernandes.
      The Portugal star will even head back to Manchester early as he is suspended for his country’s next game after taking his shirt off in the celebrations from their 2-1 win over Ireland on Wednesday night.
      Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho has been injured on England duty and United are waiting to see the extent of his problems.
      Elsewhere, Daniel James has crossed the Pennines to sign a £30m deal with Leeds.
      While Dortmund have issued a final hands off warning on Erling Haaland, with the chase for the striker’s signature likely to rumble on.
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      Get all the latest Man Utd news, updates and transfer gossip here…
      COLE: MAN UTD BIGGEST CLUB IN ENGLAND AGAIN
      Manchester United MUST win the Prem as Cristiano Ronaldo’s return finally makes them England’s biggest club again, Joe Cole claims.
      Former Chelsea and England midfielder Cole rates capturing five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ron from Juventus a “stroke of genius”.
      The ambassador for bookie Coral said: “Manchester United are now back front and centre as the biggest club in the country after signing Ronaldo. 
      “They have the biggest player in the league, with the biggest global reach, playing for them. 
      “It is a stroke of genius to bring him back to Old Trafford.”
      I’M STILL EVRA SO EXCITED BY CRIS
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s former Manchester United team-mate Patrice Evra is still bubbling with “excitement” at the master’s return.
      This tweet reads like any fan’s…

      BANNED RON’S RETURN BOOSTS UTD
      Cristiano Ronaldo has been released from international duty after being banned for Portugal’s next World Cup qualifier.
      Manchester United have now received a huge boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Newcastle after the news was confirmed on Thursday.
      Ronaldo, 36, was handed a one-match suspension after being booked as he celebrated his record-setting late double in Portugal’s 2-1 comeback win against the Republic of Ireland.

      And it saw him ruled out of Tuesday’s trip to Azerbaijan.
      But Ronaldo will no longer have to stick around with Portugal, who first face Qatar in a friendly on Saturday, and is allowed to head for Carrington.
      A statement from the Portuguese FA read: “Cristiano Ronaldo was excused from the national team on Thursday.
      “The yellow card against Ireland, being the second in this stage of qualification, forces him to fulfil an official game of suspension, which will happen against Azerbaijan.
      “This morning, the captain of the national team was part of the group of players who carried out recovery work at the hotel.”
      ANGEL SAYS GAAL WAS A DEVIL
      Angel Di Maria tore into Louis van Gaal as he explained why inheriting the No 7 top from legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, George Best was never his big problem at Manchestr United.
      In fact, to put it politely, the PSG winger has fiercely contrasitng views on United’s ex boss and arguably their most famous shirt number…

      The 111-cap Argentina star, 33, said: “I didn’t give a f*** about the Manchester United No 7 shirt.. my problem in Manchester was the coach.
      Van Gaal was the worst of my career.
      “I would score, assist, and the next day he would show me my misplaced passes..
      “He didn’t like players being more than him.”
      HOW ED TALKED GLAZERS INTO BUYING RON
      Ed Woodward played a crucial role in ensuring the most incredible return in football history happened.
      Sir Alex Ferguson is understandably hailed for his role in getting Cristiano Ronaldo back with his late phone call to the player.
      But it would not have got near that point without Executive Vice-Chairman Woodward convincing the club’s owners and sponsors in a whirlwind 48 hours that it all made sense.

      Forget the transfer fee for Ronaldo that comes to less than £20million.
      It was the commitment to a wage of £75million if he completes the full three years of his contract, for a player who would be 39 at the end of it. To a bean-counter that just did not make sense.
      But while sponsors and the owning Glazer family may look at the bottom line it was Woodward who convinced them how it would work on and off the pitch.
      United fans often ridicule the club for the endless signing up of sponsors – they have 24 – and when executives point to social media figures.
      Woodward convinced them this Ronaldo deal would really work for them.
      And in the 24 hours after the announcement of Ronaldo’s return on social media was the most liked by a sports team ever with 12.9million likes.
      The announcement on Twitter alone was likewise with 862,000 retweets and two million likes. They earned more than 3.7m new followers across the club’s social channels.
      SOLSKJAER ‘BLOCKED 5 STARS FROM LEAVING’
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reportedly blocked five players from leaving Manchester United during the summer transfer window.
      According to The Mirror, he blocked moves for some of United’s fringe players, who were already struggling for playing time, to keep his squad depth high over the season.
      Donny van de Beek is the most notable name that Solskjaer stopped from leaving over the summer.
      Diogo Dalot also saw a potential loan move blocked after returning from Italy.
      Anthony Elanga had also harboured hopes of leaving on loan to gain some experience, but Solskjaer believed his development was best served in Manchester.
      TITLE AIM
      Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof has insisted that he is excited by the competition created by the summer arrival of Raphael Varane.
      The Swede has had his place in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team threatened by the signing of the former Real Madrid star.
      He told Swedish outlet FotbollDirekt: “It’s great, I play in one of the world’s biggest clubs and they have very good players. We will have a competitive situation and I only see it as positive that we have got a good player in the squad.
      “I have played a lot the last two years and last year I had big problems with my back and played with pain. My back feels good now, there will probably be no problems, but I do not think I will play 50, 60 matches.
      “I think the squad looks very good. It feels good, we have a good atmosphere in the team and the Premier League is always a tough league.
      “But we will do everything we can to win the title. That is the goal.”
      GREEN SHOOTS
      Mason Greenwood continued his hot start to the season by scoring against Stoke City in a behind-closed-doors friendly.
      Most Manchester United stars are currently off around the world on international duty.
      But for those that aren’t, the Red Devils yesterday staged a behind-closed-doors friendly at Old Trafford.
      According to the MEN, Greenwood scored yet again – but couldn’t prevent his side from falling to a 4-3 defeat.
      The 19-year-old was surprisingly not included in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, despite having scored in all three of Man United’s Premier League games so far this season.

      ‘HE’S FLYING’
      Gary Neville believes Greenwood now has the perfect example in terms of professionalism.
      He told the Webby and O’Neill Youtube channel: “The way Mason Greenwood is playing at the moment, he’s fit, he’s flying, he looks completely on top of his game. There’s no way he’s being left out.
      “What Cristiano will do is make Mason understand the professionalism required pre-training, in training and in recovery. With Cristiano, he’s got an even better chance of becoming a great player.
      “Aside from Harry Kane, I don’t see anybody close to Mason Greenwood as an English centre-forward. No-one, no-one’s near him.”
      ‘RISE OF ENERGY’
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United has given all the club’s teams “renewed energy”, says women’s team head coach Marc Skinner.
      He said: “We feel in the staff – it’s not even just the players – with Cristiano returning, it becomes part of the bigger construct of the club.
      “You can feel the vibes that are changing in the teams. I was speaking to someone who’s been here a long time because obviously that’s how you get to know the history of the club as well, and they can feel a renewed energy, a focus, a connected drive in all of the teams.
      “It feels like, although Manchester can be quite grey, it definitely feels like there’s a rise of energy from all the teams in and around Manchester United.”
      ‘HE’LL LOVE IT’
      Gary Neville believes Daniel James’ £25million transfer from Manchester United to Leeds United is a win-win for all concerned.
      Neville thinks James will be perfect for Marcelo Bielsa’s brand of high energy, counter-attacking football – and that the deal is also very good for Manchester United. 
      He said: “It’s really good for Dan James. It’s one of those where this is a win-win. He came to United and always did his very best, he was a massive threat on the counter-attack, but they have a lot of players in those areas.
      “It’s really important for young players to go and play, and Leeds have always wanted him. They wanted him the first time around when United got him instead.
      “He’ll suit the way they play with such pace on the counter-attack. He’ll love it there, the crowd’s a big crowd, a club that demands a lot.
      “It’s a good thing for United to get the money they did, and good for Dan to further his career at a good club.”

      ‘LIKE A ROLLS-ROYCE’
      Ray Parlour was effusive in his praise of new Manchester United signing Raphael Varane after his composed debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.
      Parlour compared the impact of Varane to that of United legend Rio Ferdinand and Manchester City stalwart Ruben Dias – who won the Football Writers’ Player of the Year as City lifted the Premier League title and reached the final of the Champions League.
      He said: “I think Varane had a really good game. He looked like a Rolls-Royce.
      “You know like Rio back in his day for Manchester United?”
      “Varane could be exactly the same as Ruben Dias. The impact he made at Manchester City, they will certainly have a go.
      “You know Harry Maguire plays every game, he is a leader, and if they can get the partnership in the way that John Stones has really benefitted.”

      RON TO WATCH
      Fans desperate to watch Cristiano Ronaldo’s second debut for Manchester United are being asked to pay up to £2,500.
      The Red Devils will take on Newcastle on Saturday the 11th in a 15:00 kick off, but the game won’t be televised in the UK due to the return of the 3pm blackout rule.
      That means the only way for fans to watch the return of their legendary forward will be at Old Trafford, with prices now soaring for the privilege.
      American resale site StubHub have been asking fans to cough up as much as £2,514 to watch the game.
      ‘SPECIAL MOMENT’
      Manchester United’s new signing Cristiano Ronaldo says breaking the men’s international goals record is one of his proudest achievements yet.
      Posting on Instagram, Ronaldo expressed to his 300 million plus followers just how much the feat meant to him and how proud he was to accomplish it.
      He wrote: “First of all, because every time I represent my country is a special moment, for knowing that I’m defending Portugal and showing to the world what Portuguese people are made of.
      “Secondly, because national teams competitions have always had a very strong impact in me as I was growing up, watching my idols playing for their flags every other summer in Euros and in World Cups.
      “But finally and above all, because scoring 111 goals for Portugal means 111 moments like the ones we experienced today in Algarve, moments of worldwide union and happiness for millions and millions of Portuguese citizens all around the globe. For them, every sacrifice is worth it.”
      ‘RECHARGE’
      Manchester United star Fred is on holiday in Croatia after being blocked from international duty.
      Fred was not permitted to link up with the Brazil international squad by United, upon Premier League instructions.
      Premier League clubs refused to release players travelling to ‘red list’ countries for internationals, as it would require a 10 days quarantine upon return.
      Fred has this morning shared an Instagram video from the beach in Split, Croatia as he looks to ‘recharge’.

      ‘COULD BE A LEGEND’
      Danny Murphy has admitted that he’s concerned for Mason Greenwood after Manchester United re-signed Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Murphy believes Greenwood’s game time could now be severely affected by the signing of the Portuguese legend.
      He told talkSPORT: “He’s 19, what he’s got is the natural knack to finish. He scores goals effortlessly with both feat, in fact I can’t remember a forward being so effortlessly with both feat since Robbie Fowler.
      “He was comfortable either way and Greenwood looks comfortable on his right foot.
      My concern for him is the singing of Ronaldo, I don’t want to put a downer on it as I can’t wait to see one of the best players play in the Premier League and its going to be fascinating how he fits into the team and how he builds relationships with [Bruno] Fernandes and [Jadon] Sancho.
      “Ithink Greenwood, although we may have to wait a little longer due to Ronaldo’s signing, could go on to be an absolute legend for United. Ronaldo is going to delay his progression.”

      REAL DEAL
      Real Madrid are interested in Paul Pogba and could try to steal him away from Old Trafford when his contract expires next summer.
      The midfielder has been a top target for Paris Saint-Germain but they were unable to secure a deal for the Frenchman this summer.
      Manchester United are keen to keep Pogba at the club and have offered him a new contract, but talks are ongoing.

      ‘HE DEFIES BELIEF’
      Cristiano Ronaldo has been labelled the ‘greatest goalscorer of all time’ after breaking the international record on Wednesday night.
      Jason Cundy insists the record cements Ronaldo’s place as football’s greatest ever forward.
      “He is a joke. He defies belief. He’s a freak of nature. He is the greatest goalscoring no.9 the world has ever seen.
      “With Ronaldo there… can United win the title? The answer to that question is emphatically, ‘Yes’.
      “If you say, ‘No, they can’t win it’ – then you’re an idiot.”
      ‘HE DIDN’T GIVE A F***’
      Angel Di Maria has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo got into a fight with Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid after the Portuguese coach labelled him lazy.
      The pair won the LaLiga title and Copa del Rey during their time together, but Di Maria – who was also at Real Madrid during the same period – admits it did boil over between the pair.
      Speaking to Libero, the Argentine said: “Mourinho is insane, with me he was always a good guy.
      “He fought with anyone though, he didn’t give a f***.
      “One time he fought with Ronaldo telling him he didn’t run, that everyone ran for him.”

      OLE SAYS NO
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reportedly blocked five players from leaving Manchester United during the summer transfer window.
      According to The Mirror, he blocked moves for some of United’s fringe players, who were already struggling for playing time, to keep his squad depth high over the season.
      Donny van de Beek is the most notable name that Solskjaer stopped from leaving over the summer.
      Diogo Dalot also saw a potential loan move blocked after returning from Italy.
      Anthony Elanga had also harboured hopes of leaving on loan to gain some experience, but Solskjaer believed his development was best served in Manchester.
      MAD MAX
      Juventus boss Max Allegri was said to have been left ‘furious’ about Cristiano Ronaldo’s shock exit.
      The returning Old Lady manager wasn’t told that Ronaldo would be leaving the club when he agreed to come back.
      According to Il Giornale, Allegri is “furious” with club president Andrea Agnelli and sporting director Federico Cherubini.
      He reportedly told club bosses that “these were not the agreements” when he agreed to return to the club.
      Juventus have signed Moise Kean from Everton and Euro 2020 star Manuel Locatelli from Sassuolo this summer.

      BISS PLEASE
      Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool are set to battle it out for Brighton star Yves Bissouma, according to reports.
      Graham Potter’s side managed to fend off any interest over the summer with their price tag but they may not be so lucky in January.
      According to Metro’s Aden-Jay Wood, ‘several clubs’ including Man United, Arsenal and Liverpool have ‘long-standing interest’ in Bissouma.
      Surprisingly, Brighton received no official bids for the 25-year-old over the summer.
      But interest could be ‘revisited’ in January.

      DONNY MOVE?
      Everton staff had ‘serious reservations’ about Marcel Brands pursuing a deal for Manchester United midfielder Donny Van de Beek on deadline day.
      That’s according to The Telegraph, who claims that Brands explored a potential move to bring Va ode Beek to Goodison Park in the final hours of the transfer window.
      No formal approach was made, but Brands allegedly spoke to Van de Beek’s agent Guido Albers to gauge the interest in a move to Everton.
      ‘COULD HAVE BEEN MASSIVE’
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact at Manchester City would have been bigger than the impact he’ll have at Manchester United, Trevor Sinclair has suggested.
      Former Manchester City star Sinclair said: “I feel his impact at Manchester City would have been huge.
      “They haven’t got a striker, they need one, the possession and the amount of chances they carve out and don’t get finished because they haven’t got an out and out striker such as [Sergio] Aguero or someone like Cristiano Ronaldo.
      “Of course he would [have been a better fit at Man City], Man United have got Edinson Cavani, who does a very similar job.
      “I’m sure Manchester United fans are delighted that he’s gone to Manchester United, but whether he’s gonna change their whole season I don’t think that’s the case, he could have been massive for Manchester City.”
      ‘TRULY PROUD’
      Cristiano Ronaldo created history on Wednesday night, scoring his 110th and 111th international goals to break the record held by Ali Daei.
      Iran legend Daei scored 109 goals in 149 appearances for his country but saw his remarkable record equalled by Ronaldo during Euro 2020 in June.
      Daei praised Cristiano at the time, writing on Instagram: “I am honoured that this remarkable achievement will belong to Ronaldo – great champion of football and caring humanist who inspires and impacts lives throughout the world.”
      And after breaking the record Ronaldo said: “I can’t even start to express myself in words! I’m thrilled with an overwhelming sensation! Let’s go, Portugal! Let’s go!
      “From all the records that I have broken during my career – and fortunately there have been a few – this one is very special for me and it’s certainly on the shelf of the achievements that make me truly proud.”

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