Cristiano Ronaldo: Manchester United's New Phenomenon

This season has been a very good season for one man : CRISTIANO RONALDO.

He has risen over his peers and proved to the world that he is the best there is in world football today. His rise to the top couldn't have been more dramatic. After all the news concerning his relationship with Wayne Rooney and Manchester United after the World Cup, he has shown that his maturity level has been quite high since that fateful quarter final.

His first few seasons at United, highlighted the fact that he was a great talent, but he has put that talent to full use over the past two seasons. His performances in the 2006-07 season were a highlight in his career and even though Kaka stole the show with the European and World footballer of the year awards, he was not disheartened.

Under the watchful eye of Sir Alex Ferguson he has blossomed into another Old Trafford crowd favourite and will always remain as a favourite even if his performances result in no trophies.

One might argue that he scores only against smaller teams and does not show up in big games. However this season, he has scored against the likes of Arsenal, Lyon and Roma, all of whom are great sides in their own ways. One might still argue that he missed a penalty against Barcelona at the Camp Nou, showing his lack of scoring ability in big situations.Well, what do you expect, considering that he is only 23 and has the world's weight on his shoulders to deliver every week? Besides he is not an out-and-out striker, he is a winger.

Put the likes of Henry, Torres or Messi in his place and I'm sure that the would at some point of time, crumble under the enormous pressure. Besides, the English media loves to exaggerate and blow up such incidents thus pressurising a player.

Ronaldo however has done very well under such pressure, his 40 goals this season justify his status as the world's best. How many wingers do we know who can boast of such an achievement? His scoring has been the driving force behind United this season and the past. Gone are the days when he used to showboat, and perform those trademark stepovers. Today, he is more direct and more efficient.

The name 'Ronaldo' used to bring to mind the magnificent Brazilian striker, but today the first thing that comes to mind is Cristiano Ronaldo. He is on the verge of becoming a legend at Old Trafford and is the new 'il fenomeno'.

I salute this great player and wish that he continues this way for many years to come.