Cristiano Ronaldo was signed from Portuguese outfit Sporting Lisbon in August 2003, and has immediately become one of the bright lights of European football. The nifty-footed Portuguese attacker impressed during a friendly , in which he played against United. Match report for this game can be found here.

Ronaldo has become part of Sir Alex's 'nurturing' scheme which has produced players such as Giggs. The teenager is expected to become one of the world's best players very soon, packing the punch into United's attack.

Ronaldo said he hoped to succeed despite the pressure of becoming the most expensive teenager in British football after signing for £12.2m.

"It's a great joy but it's a great responsibility," he said. "I hope to answer everything that's asked of me. I hope everyone is very proud of me.

"This is the greatest club in the world and that's why I chose the club."

So Far So Good

As of yet 'Little' Ronaldo seems to be clicking with the United attacking style of play, although yet to score after 7 appearance for the Red Devils (4 starts, 3 as sub). However, he is not renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, but rather for his pacy swift feet on the ball, running at opposition back lines.

Many people prefer to draw criticism from Ronaldo's performances to date, e.g. FA charges against him for misconduct against Arsenal players. However, to me, he has made a close-to-perfect start to his Old Trafford career, taking into consideration he is still just a teenager.

The Future's Bright, The Future's Red

The hype of Ronaldo replacing Beckham, starting with his occupation of the legendary number 7 shirt, has presented the young attacker with plenty of pressure; as if living up to his almost £16 million price tag wasn't enough. Also, similarly to Beckham, Ronaldo also has a huge fanbase, mostly of whom are female.

Ronaldo's transfer to United can only do favours for his international career, in which he is yet to break into the Portuguese first team. If he gets the chance to perform in the European Championships held in his home nation Portugal in 2004, I am sure he will shine on the international stage as well and provide him with priceless experience which in turn will be converted into brilliant performances for Manchester United.

We here at ManUtdWeb.com hope that Ronaldo pursues his career at Old Trafford to its fullest and will bring back many a championship trophy. Will he or won't we be able to handle the pressure? I guess we can only wait and find out.