Cristiano Ronaldo smiled throughout Manchester United training ahead of Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Omonia, confirming Victor Lindelof’s claim that the mood in the dressing room was upbeat. The Red Devils are looking for their third European victory of the season. They’ve won their last two games in the competition, but they did lose on matchday one to Real Sociedad.
Ronaldo finally got off to a good start in open play for Manchester United, scoring in their 2-2 win over Everton on Sunday.
And, before tonight’s match against Omonia, the Portugal international was photographed exercising alongside Diogo Dalot with a smile on his face.
With Anthony Martial doubtful, Ronaldo is likely to spearhead United’s assault as they aim to make it three Europa League wins in a row this season.
Erik ten Hag has claimed that he is pleased with the veteran, stating prior to the game that Ronaldo was now completely fit after missing pre-season.
“I want to help him as much as I can,” the 52-year-old stated.
“So we have a particular demand on players, what we anticipate from him in specific areas on the field, and what I do is try to get the greatest player possible.
“He’s in better shape now, which makes me delighted; he can offer more to the group, and I’m confident he will.
“It was obviously the case (that he was undercooked) at the start, and it’s demonstrated once again that no one can miss pre-season due to the after-effects.”
Marcus Rashford was also seen smiling in training, despite the fact that the Manchester United sensation had already scored five goals this season.
Last week, two of them came off the bench as the Red Devils battled to a 3-2 victory over Omonia in Cyrpus, with Martial also scoring.
Lindelof, Bruno Fernandes, and Tyrell Malacia were photographed completing running drills as the trio vies for a starting berth in Ten Hag’s XI.
And Steve McClaren barks commands, whipping his players into shape as they seek success on home soil.
Ronaldo’s smile comes after Lindelof claimed United players were upbeat following winning their past two games in all competitions.
“I think the mood in the group is quite positive,” the Sweden international remarked.
“In the squad, we have a lot of good players and decent individuals who provide a lot of energy.”
“At a club, there is usually good team spirit, and we have it right now.” We aspire to continue improving, performing, and winning games.”
And Lindelof has praised his new center-back partner Lisandro Martinez, who has thrived since joining Ajax in the summer.
“It’s gone well,” he remarked.
“He has been doing well since he arrived, and he is a wonderful player who is really good with the ball.”
“I’ve already played two games with him, and the last one was better than the first; we played a good game.”
So far, United’s European campaign has been a mixed bag.
They were defeated 1-0 by Real Sociedad in their first match, just after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
United then came back to defeat Sheriff, with Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo both scoring.
And, despite a lackluster performance in Cyrpus, they were able to edge off Omonia last week, taking all three points.
