Cristiano Ronaldo starts in behind-closed-doors friendly vs Halifax Town | OneFootball

Icon: 90min

90min

·8 August 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo starts in behind-closed-doors friendly vs Halifax Town

Article image:Cristiano Ronaldo starts in behind-closed-doors friendly vs Halifax Town

Cristiano Ronaldo's quest to return to full fitness continued with an appearance in Manchester United's 5-1 behind-closed-doors win against National League side Halifax Town.

The Portugal international spent most of pre-season in Portugal after requesting time off for personal reasons, missing the club's tour of Thailand and Australia.


OneFootball Videos


He has also requested a move to a club competing in this season's Champions League, but he is short of suitors and time is running out to secure a transfer away this window.

Ronaldo came on as a second-half substitute in United's 2-1 loss at home to Brighton on Sunday, with midfielder Christian Eriksen starting up front instead. Erik ten Hag had previously insisted that the 37-year-old was not in fit enough shape to start against the Seagulls.

And the Daily Mail report that Ronaldo took part in a friendly at United's Carrington training ground on Monday, with a rather senior Red Devils side beating Halifax 5-1.

The likes of Eric Bailly, Victor Lindelof, Tyrell Malacia, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, James Garner, Anthony Elanga and Alejandro Garnacho also featured, while Tom Heaton started in goal.

Ronaldo is facing a race against time to be fit enough to start United's next Premier League game - a trip to Brentford on Saturday evening.

Ten Hag's men then welcome Liverpool to Old Trafford for their first real test of the new season.

View publisher imprint