Ronaldo’s Return Elevates Solskjaer

BERN, Switzerland: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United must have ambitions to win the Champions League after securing the return of Cristiano Ronaldo.

United, who started their European campaign against Young Boys here, at midnight Malaysian time, last won European football in 2008 when Ronaldo exploded in the final against Chelsea when he was with the Red Devils.

Since his move to Real Madrid in 2009, United have only reached the quarter -finals twice after their future was fading following the retirement of Alex Ferguson as manager.

However Ronaldo’s return adds to a squad that has star quality with Solskjaer believing he is ready to compete with major European clubs.

“The main target when we go to this tournament is to keep going,” Solskjaer told a pre -match press conference.

“We have added a bit of experienced, quality and young players to the squad. I hope we are better prepared this year for the upcoming game.”

United were knocked out of the Champions League group stage last season and have also failed to win the Europa League in two seasons under Solskjaer.

But the Norwegian is hoping it will be a catalyst for United’s return to European football.

“It’s enough we’re disappointed,” he said. “The team has grown and matured over the last few seasons. That was the plan when I came, now we see a squad with experience and quality for us to challenge.”