The king plays! Ronaldo included in Man Utd XI for Rayo friendly despite of ongoing transfer rumours

 Christiano Ronaldo had been absent throughout the Red Devils' pre-season campaign, but is now back ahead of the new season

Manchester United's starting XI includes Ronaldo to face Rayo Vallecano despite the ongoing rumours linking him with a summer transfer. The 37-year-old made Erik ten Hag's lineup despite not featuring in any of the Red Devils' previous five pre-season fixtures.

Ronaldo indicated he was set to feature against Rayo on social media as he told his followers "the king plays", leading to speculation he would come off the bench, but Ten Hag has decided to use him right from the off at Old Trafford.