The atmosphere was buoyant inside Old Trafford on a balmy day last September as Manchester United entertained Newcastle and Cristiano Ronaldo lined up for the Red Devils for the first time in over 12 years.
The anticipation among the Old Trafford faithful was palpable and the Portuguese superstar did not disappoint. Two goals, including one in front of a mesmerised Stretford End, guided United to a resounding 4-1 win and optimism was abounds.
Their returning hero Ronaldo was seen as the final piece of the jigsaw to push Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side onto the title after a second-placed finish the previous season.