Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo texts Rio Ferdinand following late win over Villarreal
According to BT Sport (h/t Manchester Evening News), Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo sent a message to club legend Rio Ferdinand following the late win over Villarreal last night.
The Red Devils looked set to share the spoils with the Europa League champions only for Ronaldo to win the game at the near post in stoppage time. It raised the roof off Old Trafford in what was a difficult night for the home team.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side can consider themselves lucky to get a win or any points at all given their performance on the night. Villarreal were clearly the better side and could have been out of sight had their finishing not been wayward.
According to the report, Ferdinand revealed after the game that he had received a message from the United number seven. It would appear that Ronaldo knew he would score on the night.
“He text me tonight saying ”I didn’t’ play well but I knew I’d score.”
The flying winger admits that he could not impact proceedings like he would have liked to on the night. However, he was at the right place at the right time to make a difference.
Results masking the reality?
Ferdinand goes on to praise Ronaldo for the impact he has had on the club and those around him. He clearly believes the 36-year-old’s presence has had a positive impact on the side.
“That’s the belief that he has. The other players are feeding off it. It’s a great place to be.”
There is little doubt that Ronaldo should receive praise for his match-winning performance. Ferdinand, however, does try to spin it in every positive light. As long as Ronaldo is on the pitch, we will always have hope but then not every team will switch off like Villarreal.
“When you need a goal, a moment to galvanise the squad, the stadium, the fanbase, Cristiano Ronaldo steps up.”
More Manchester United News
- Solskjaer singles out Manchester United duo Cristiano Ronaldo and Jesse Lingard for praise following Villareal win
- Manchester United fans react as Cristiano Ronaldo scores a stoppage-time winner against Villarreal
- Transfer News: Manchester United target Florian Wirtz keen on Bundesliga stay for the time being
Solskjaer was seen celebrating wildly at United’s winner but the results mask serious questions that can be asked of the side. Just how long United’s luck will last under the Norwegian is anyone’s guess.