Cristiano Ronaldo makes Man United return vs. Rayo Vallecano

Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Manchester United's starting XI for their preseason friendly against Rayo Vallecano at Old Trafford on Sunday.

New signings Lisandro Martinez and Christian Eriksen were also named in a much-changed side from the one that lost 1-0 to Atletico Madrid on Saturday. Raphael Varane was named captain while Tom Heaton, Donny van de Beek and Alex Telles also featured alongside youngsters Ethan Laird, Tahith Chong and Alejandro Garnacho.

— Marcotti: Why Ronaldo should re-join Real Madrid — Dawson: Man United preseason winners and losers — Don't have ESPN? Get instant access

Ronaldo missed United's tour of Thailand and Australia after being given time off for personal reasons.

During his absence, speculation about the Portugal international's future at United was rife and ESPN reported that he wanted to leave in order to play Champions League football.

However, Ronaldo, who has one year to run on his United contract, returned to training on Tuesday. He was accompanied by his agent, Jorge Mendes, and held talks with new United manager Erik ten Hag.