Ronaldo Returns to Old Trafford with Brace in Man United’s VictoryRonaldo Returns to Old Trafford with Brace in Man United’s Victory In a nostalgic return to his former stomping grounds, Cristiano Ronaldo marked his second Manchester United debut with a stunning brace to secure a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford. The Portuguese icon received a rapturous reception from the Old Trafford faithful as he took to the pitch for the first time since leaving the club in 2009. He repaid their adoration handsomely, scoring twice in the first half to put United in control. Ronaldo’s first goal came in the 45th minute. Mason Greenwood’s cross found him unmarked at the far post, and he headed the ball powerfully past Newcastle goalkeeper Karl Darlow. Just four minutes later, Ronaldo doubled his tally and United’s lead. Bruno Fernandes played him through on goal with a defence-splitting pass, and the Portuguese striker coolly slotted the ball into the net. Newcastle pulled one back in the second half through Javier Manquillo’s strike, but United quickly restored their three-goal advantage when Fernandes added a third. Greenwood then sealed the victory with a fine individual effort that left Darlow with no chance. Ronaldo’s brace marked his 118th goal for Manchester United, making him the club’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League. It also marked his first goals in the league since May 2009. The victory was United’s first of the new Premier League season and lifted them to third in the standings. It was a perfect start for manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has been under pressure to deliver success this season. For Ronaldo, it was a dream return to Old Trafford. The 36-year-old showed that he still has plenty to offer and that he is determined to help United challenge for major honors this season.
