With Anthony Martial set to miss Manchester United's opening game of the new Premier League season, Cristiano Ronaldo could be given an opportunity to silence his critics. Will the Red Devils claim three points, or will Brighton Hove Albion hand Erik ten Hag a nightmare start?
As confirmed by Ten Hag, Martial has sustained a hamstring injury that will keep him out of Sunday's clash against Graham Potter's Brighton at Old Trafford. The Frenchman was in incredible form in pre-season and was tipped to lead the line in United's season-opener ahead of Ronaldo, who has played just 45 minutes in preparation for the new campaign.
Martial's absence could lead to Ten Hag turning to the Portugal captain, despite the player's wish to be sold before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has been able to motivate himself during difficult moments. Lionel Messi's four consecutive Ballon d'Or wins in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 saw the then-Real Madrid talisman hit career-best form as he claimed the famous prize in 2013 and 2014.
Following Barcelona's treble-winning season in 2014/15, the accolade found itself back in Messi's possession, but Ronaldo, who had already won the award in 2008, fought back to draw level with his long-time rival after successes in 2016 and 2017.
Responding to his loudest critics has often brought out the best in the legendary No. 7, and fans will hope one final renaissance in red will be on the cards should he be involved this weekend, even if he does eventually leave the club before August concludes.
Last season, it was one apiece as both United and Brighton beat one another in their two Premier League encounters. Ronaldo scored arguably one of his better goals of the season with a strike from range to help seal a 2-0 win over the Seagulls, who responded in emphatic fashion down the line.
Potter's charges seemed to put the final nail in Ralf Rangnick's coffin when they thrashed the Red Devils 4-0 at home in May, a game in which Ronaldo found it difficult to have an impact.
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