Manchester United have had some incredible players through the years and Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to the club three years ago was hotly anticipated.
The fanfare greeting Cristiano Ronaldo’s return three years ago made his comeback truly impossible to live up to.
Ronaldo was 36 when United brought him back, and he went onto score 24 goals in the 2021/22 season.
Ultimately despite his efforts, the season was not a successful one, but he made a major impact on the players privileged enough to play alongside him.
- READ MORE: Who is Cristiano Ronaldo? Meet one of football’s most iconic names and undisputed Man Utd legend
Alex Telles talks up Cristiano Ronaldo
Alex Telles was part of the Manchester United squad that Ronaldo joined in 2021.
The Brazilian left-back scored his only ever United goal in a 2-1 win over Villarreal, with Ronaldo scoring a dramatic last gasp winner at Old Trafford.
Telles joined Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season before recently leaving and joining Brazilian club Botafogo.
Speaking to the press in his homeland, Telles says Ronaldo and his Brazil teammate Neymar have opened his eyes with the work they put in behind the scenes.
Telles told Fogaonet: “It’s surreal. Playing with these machines… They are players who are out of the ordinary. From the moment I met Ney and Cris, both at United and Al-Nassr, seeing what they do on a daily basis, how they work.
“Cris is an example of an athlete, I’ve never seen anything like him. He’s 39 years old and he still does what he does today, he has his own treatment routine, recovery, diet, he’s a good example.
“I really like seeing good examples to learn from. I learned a lot.”
Ronaldo’s hard work behind the scenes has also rubbed off on his Portugal teammate and close pal at United, Diogo Dalot.
Dalot has also talked about Ronaldo as an inspiration, and his determination to tap into his vast experience.
Ronaldo might have enjoyed more success at United if more players had taken the same attitude.
Telles looking for fresh start
Alex Telles is looking for a new start in Brazil with Botafogo, who are currently top of the table by two points after 25 games.
Speaking about his qualities, the 31-year-old said: “I am a very attacking full-back, I like to create dangerous moments, with crosses, set pieces, shots, but nowadays football also requires a defensive aspect and I have improved a lot in this regard.
“Today there is a balance, but I am a player who builds up well offensively and gets forward well.”
Telles’ Al-Nassr finished second in the Saudi Pro League last season, missing out on the title to Al-Hilal.
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