The incredible stats behind Ronaldo's return

Monday 20 September 2021 16:06

Cristiano Ronaldo has impressed us all since he rejoined Manchester United and there are some incredible numbers to back this up.

Our legendary no.7 has already racked up four goals in three matches since returning to the fold.

On his first appearance in the red shirt since the deadline-day transfer from Juventus, Ronaldo scored a brace against Newcastle United in front of a capacity Old Trafford crowd, making it an unforgettable day for millions of supporters across the globe.

90 in 20: West Ham 1 United 2 Video

90 in 20: West Ham 1 United 2

Enjoy the extended highlights from our breathless, dramatic Premier League victory at the London Stadium...

After that incredible first match under manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the five-time UEFA Champions League winner scored on his return to European competition with the Reds, netting the opener against Swiss side Young Boys in Bern.

Then, on Sunday, the 36-year-old maintained his scoring streak by equalising against West Ham United in our thrilling 2-1 Premier League win in the capital.

The multiple Ballon d’Or winner has outperformed every other Premier League player in several attacking categories since he came back. As well as ranking first in goals scored (3), he also tops the charts for expected goals (3.24 xG), with his poacher’s efforts against the Magpies and the Hammers proving his predatory instincts.

Ronaldo has also produced the most shots overall (13), as well as the highest number from inside the box (12) and on target (7). The Portugal captain has also had the most touches inside the opposition’s box (21) and has created the largest tally of big chances (5).

As for his career overall, when he found the back of the net against West Ham with his 122nd strike for United, it meant that Ronaldo had scored in his 66th different stadium, more than any other player since his first Reds debut back in 2003.

The closest to our no.7 on that list is former Reds striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has conquered 64 different grounds since that August day in 2003 when a young Ronaldo first stepped onto the Old Trafford pitch.

Looking away from outright goal contributions and attacking numbers, in last Sunday's dramatic win at the London Stadium, our recently signed centre-forward also showcased his magnificent physical ability.

At the age of 36, Ronaldo still clocked the fastest sprint of the afternoon in East London, at an impressive 32.51 km/h. Aaron Wan-Bissaka was second best with his 32.41 km/h, while the Hammers’ fastest player on the day was forward Jarrod Bowen on 31.29 km/h.

In short, there’s no stopping Cristiano just yet!

Recommended: