On 27 August 2021, Manchester United confirmed the return of their prodigal son.
Just over 12 months later and United's relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo has changed beyond all recognition. And Erik ten Hag needs to manage it very delicately.
At the King Power Stadium on 1 September, the 37-year-old started on the bench and came on for the final 22 minutes of the 1-0 win at Leicester.
His most significant contribution was an acrobatic overhead kick that bounced wide of the far post.
In five appearances so far this season, the brilliant Portuguese has not managed a goal or an assist.