Manchester United News: Manager Takes Aim At Ronaldo's Critics After Champions League Win

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has had enough of the Cristiano Ronaldo slander.

Speaking to the media after a comeback victory over Atalanta in the backend of the first leg of the UEFA Champions League group stage, the Norwegian manager had a message for the Portuguese forward's critics.

“If anyone wants to criticize him for [his lack of] effort and work-rate just watch this game. Watch how he runs around. He did everything a center-forward should do, leading the line and defending and of course, [scoring] the goal is just what he does better than most,” a jubilant Solskjaer said.

It seemed as if Ronaldo himself heard the criticisms hurled his way and responded accordingly by pushing his 36-year-old legs to sprint and make himself useful off the ball.

He ran around the pitch, stopped the run as well as he could and led the attack, leading to multiple scoring opportunities throughout the match.

Manchester United fans found themselves sinking into their seats after seeing their side go down two goals in the first half to Atalanta.

The Red Devils came roaring back after the halftime break with Marcus Rashford breaking away from the Atalanta defense for their first goal at the 53rd minute.

Captain Harry Maguire decided to follow in Rashford’s steps by scoring the equalizer inside the box from a wonderful cross by Bruno Fernandes 22 minutes later.

The man of the hour in Ronaldo would cap off a wonderful night of Manchester United football with a header from the penalty spot off Luke Shaw’s cross at the 81^st minute.

David de Gea also redeemed himself in the second half with wonderful saves, highlighted by his deflection at the 71st minute.

By the end of it all, Old Trafford was rocking, and the fans have found a new reason to believe in their club.

The heavily-criticized manager fired a parting shot to everyone doubting the team and its players after their poor run of form prior to the Atalanta fixture.

“Don't disrespect the players. They play for Manchester United and they know they are the luckiest men in the world. Tonight they are the luckiest men in the world because they get to play for Manchester United. That is what so many millions of boys and girls want to do,” the coach stated.

The Red Devils will look to carry the momentum they generated against Atalanta back to Old Trafford on Sunday, October 24 as they welcome Liverpool for an English Premier League fixture.