Cristiano Ronaldo proved he can press in Manchester United’s Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.
Cristiano Ronaldo has found game-time hard to come by at the start of the season. The Portuguese had started just one of United’s games going into the match against Arsenal.
And he was on the bench once again for the game against United’s old rivals. There have been doubts whether Ronaldo has the capabilities to thrive in Erik ten Hag’s system.
The Dutchman’s system requires his players to press vigorously. Some think that Ronaldo, now 37, no longer has the legs needed to thrive under Ten Hag. But he proved otherwise with a lively cameo against Arsenal.
Cristiano Ronaldo replaced Antony in the 58th minute at Old Trafford.
His work-rate and the desire he showed after making his introduction was clear to see.
Ronaldo’s pressing in the 69th minute of the match showed he can do what Ten Hag wants of him. View it below…
‘Cristiano can’t press’
‘Cristiano can’t play-make’
Does it all in one clip but they won’t show you this 😂🤷🏽♂️pic.twitter.com/L6A7DT9xWl
— ً (@erlingtxt) September 4, 2022
A pass-back was played to Aaron Ramsdale and Ronaldo charged across to close Arsenal’s goalkeeper down.
The pressing worked, too, as he forced Ramsdale into a mistake.
Fred managed to intercept Ramsdale’s pass and created a dangerous opportunity for Bruno Fernandes.
Moments later, Ronaldo picked up the ball just inside the box and played a lovely pass to Scott McTominay.
None of that would be possible without Ronaldo’s pressing.
Another video has also emerged which shows how hard Ronaldo worked during the match.
Don’t say anything just watch pic.twitter.com/TBk2Irdl3y
— 𝙼𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚗𝚗𝚢 (@vandebackk) September 4, 2022
It was a promising performance for Ronaldo, who gave it his all after making his introduction.
Despite turning 38 next February, he still has the legs and ability to press which is needed to thrive under Ten Hag.
With yet more minutes under his belt, Ten Hag may be tempted to give Ronaldo a start in the near future.
The legendary striker will hope he is restored to the starting lineup for United’s match against Crystal Palace next Sunday.