Cristiano Ronaldo scores in second Man U debut

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring their side's first goal of the game during the Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Press Association

Cristiano Ronaldo scores in second Manchester United debut

By Erin Walsh | Last updated Sep 11, 2021 11:21 AM ET

Was there ever any doubt?

Cristiano Ronaldo scored in his second Manchester United debut on Saturday to put the Red Devils up 1-0 against Newcastle just before halftime.

The goal was almost expected as Ronaldo was named to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's starting XI. The ball came off a blocked shot from Mason Greenwood, and Ronaldo was in the right spot at the right time to tap it home.

The goal sent the crowd at Old Trafford into a frenzy:

IT DIDN'T TAKE LONG!@Cristiano is BACK. #MUFC pic.twitter.com/k3laVNuStA
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 11, 2021

It was Ronaldo's first Premier League goal since May 10, 2009. He last scored for the Red Devils on a free-kick against Manchester City more than 12 years ago.

Here's a fun fact: The 36-year-old scored his only Premier League hat trick against Newcastle in 2008.

⏮ January 2008—Cristiano Ronaldo scores his only Manchester United hat-trick. It was against Newcastle. United face Newcastle on Saturday on Ronaldo's return to Old Trafford...

(via @ManUtd)pic.twitter.com/tnky6qnBDb
— B/R Football (@brfootball) September 10, 2021

Ronaldo recently rejoined Manchester United after moving on from Juventus at the end of the transfer window. His first stint at Old Trafford came from 2003-09.

The Portuguese superstar won three Premier League titles and a Champions League crown in his first go-around with the club, in addition to receiving his first of five Ballon d'Or Awards as the world's best player.

Erin Walsh

Erin Walsh is a Boston sports fan through and through. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bridgewater State University and currently is in pursuit of her Master's Degree in Journalism from Northeastern University. Follow her on Twitter @ewalsh90

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