Raphael Varane makes Cristiano Ronaldo prediction ahead of Manchester United Champions League tie

Raphael Varane is backing Cristiano Ronaldo to provide another big game performance when Manchester United host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Tuesday night.

United head into the crucial second leg level at 1-1 on aggregate with the Spanish champions, with the tie evenly poised as they battle for a place in the last eight of the competition. Ronaldo has been United's key man in Europe so far this season, with six goals from six appearances, including late goals in both matches against Atalanta as well as a 95th minute winner in the 3-2 victory over Villarreal.

Anthony Elanga was the hero when United came from behind to secure a memorable draw in the first leg in Madrid, but Varane thinks Ronaldo will be the one to watch when the two sides meet again at Old Trafford. Varane and Ronaldo won four Champions League titles together for Real Madrid between 2014 and 2018.

“I think he’s a very great player and I think he feels different when the pressure is higher,” Raphael told United Review ahead of the clash.

“When it’s a big moment, he can feel – I don’t know if it’s more motivation or something different, but we know in special moments he’s always ready. He will be very important for us.”