Manchester United flop Bebe has drawn comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring a stunning free-kick out in Spain.
Fans at Old Trafford will remember the 31-year-old for his failed stint at United, having joined the club back in 2010 from Portuguese side Vitoria de Guimaraes. The transfer took plenty by surprise, with Sir Alex Ferguson admitting he had only met him the day before his transfer was completed having not seen him play.
The midfielder’s time in England was not a success, with Bebe making just seven appearances for United in his four years at the club. He was shipped out on loan to Besiktas, Rio Ave and Pacos de Ferreira before eventually leaving on a permanent deal to Benfica.
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Since his time at Old Traffford, Bebe has gone on to play for Cordoba and Eibar, but it’s at current club Rayo Vallecano where he looks to have finally found some form. He played a big part in their early success this season as they threatened to upset some of Spain’s big hitters with a top four finish.
They have since dropped down into mid-table, but are still punching above their weight. And Bebe provided them with an unbelievable moment in their Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Betis on Thursday night.
With Vallecano 2-1 down from the first leg, the former United man levelled the tie on aggregate with just 10 minutes to go in the second leg with an unstoppable free-kick. Bebe looked to have called upon his time with Ronaldo at Old Trafford as he hit a knuckleball into the top corner from 30 yards out.
Unfortunately for Vallecano, a stoppage-time goal from Borja Iglesias sent Betis through 3-2 on aggregate, ending their dreams of lifting silverware this season. Betis will now play Valencia in the final in Seville on April 23.
For Bebe though, his renaissance in Spain continues, eight years on from his departure from Old Trafford.
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