Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo sent the U-18 team a motivational video to help inspire them to victory before the FA Youth Cup final against Nottingham Forest.
Alejandro Garnacho, who has recently been integrated into the senior team, starred for the Red Devils. United beat Forest 3-1 in the final at Old Trafford, with the Argentine kid scoring a scintillating double.
Garnacho celebrated his second strike by imitating Cristiano Ronaldo's signature "Siu" celebration.
Manchester Evening News revealed in a report that Ronaldo sent a video message to the U-18 players ahead of the final in order to motivate them for the big match. Old Trafford created a packed atmosphere with 70,000 fans in attendance for the game.
United captain Rhys Bennett headed the home team in front before Forest equalized through Josh Powell before half-time. The Garnacho show was on display in the second half as the Argentine youngster scored a crucial double to help his team win the FA Youth Cup.
FA Youth Cup success a breath of fresh air in a difficult season for Manchester United
The success of the U-18 team is a welcome break for the club, who have not tasted any joy in the senior squad. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo scoring 24 goals in 38 games, he has been unable to lead his team to any silverware this season. United have also missed out on a top four spot in the league this season.
They were knocked out in the early rounds in both domestic cup competitions. In the Champions League, United lost to Atletico Madrid in the Round of 16 stage.
Interim manager Ralf Rangnick will hand over the reins to Erik ten Hag, who will become the new permanent boss in the summer.
Big changes can be expected at Old Trafford this summer. Multiple departures and arrivals could be on the cards for the club. As for Ronaldo, the veteran forward will stay at the club, given that the new manager wants him around (per Mirror).
Ronaldo's leadership skills could be an asset for the new boss as he sets about his task next season.