'The King' might be returning to action for Manchester United on Sunday, but Cristiano Ronaldo's title now holds a ceremonial role rather than one of power over his teammates. Erik ten Hag took the strongest side available to Oslo for the match against Atletico Madrid and, in his absence, all but confirmed the side he will use against Brighton in their Premier League opener next weekend.
United fans have had to take their pre-season results with a pinch of salt given that, despite being impressive, they count for nothing, Saturday's defeat to the side that knocked them out of the Champions League last season was a painful reminder of the challenges they still have to overcome.
Atletico were always going to be the toughest test United would face in the summer, and the opening minutes looked to be a reality check as the La Liga side pressed with intensity against their backline.
