Cristiano Ronaldo finally came back to Manchester United this season after leaving the club in 2009. The Portuguese forward rose through the ranks at United and became the best player in the world at the club, winning the Ballon d’Or in 2008, and the UEFA Champions League and Premier League title too.

However, his return to the club hasn’t lived up to those high standards, as United aren’t the same dominant side anymore. The club hasn’t won a trophy in the last five years, and their only chance to win one is if they win the UEFA Champions League this season, which is highly unlikely.

Moreover, Ronaldo is 37 now and isn’t the same force that he was a few years ago. Yet, he has still been the club’s top scorer this season and has contributed a lot to the side, which still hasn’t been enough. The Portuguese forward started on the bench in United’s match against Burnley, something which is unheard of in his long career.

Why was Ronaldo kissing his shin pads?

However, United manager Ralf Rangnick explained that he wanted to play Edinson Cavani in the middle because of the Uruguayan’s tendency to run after long balls and that Ronaldo will start the next two matches. Meanwhile, Ronaldo did come on for Cavani in the last 20 minutes of the game.

Interestingly, before coming on the pitch, Ronaldo was seen doing a ritual that he always does. The Portuguese was seen kissing his shin pads before pulling his socks up. Fans were speculating why he was doing that, considering that his shin pads have a photo of himself. However, Ronaldo was kissing the photos of his family, which were also on his shin pads.

Cristiano Ronaldo and his prospects with Manchester United

United are currently sitting in fifth place in the Premier League table, something Ronaldo will not be happy about. If Ronaldo was to miss out on the UCL next season, he won’t remain at the club for long.

Meanwhile, he has carried the club to the knockout stages of the competition with six goals in five games this season. If he keeps on going like this, United might just have a chance to make a deep run in the competition.

Read More: Fan Tries to Eat and Train Like Cristiano Ronaldo, Nearly Breaks Down: “Just Vomited in My Mouth”