Charlie McNeill, a young striker for Manchester United, is currently learning his trade in League Two after playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo just months ago. Since joining Newport County on loan in January, McNeill has scored one goal in 11 games. However, he has achieved one of his dreams this season by making his debut for Manchester United. The 19-year-old came on as a second-half substitute in the Europa League defeat to Real Sociedad and was lucky enough to play alongside his childhood idol Ronaldo.
In an interview with BBC Sport, McNeill expressed his excitement about playing with Ronaldo, saying, “Fortunately I got to make my debut and I was up front with him and it was surreal. So that was another dream come true.” He also spoke about his surprise at being put in the squad and his excitement at being able to play in front of 75,000 fans.
McNeill is now playing in the bottom tier of English football and is still adjusting to the rough and tumble style of play. However, he is embracing the challenge and sees it as an opportunity to improve his physical attributes. He admits that it has been tough physically, but he has enjoyed challenging defenders and working on the “ugly side” of the game.
Despite only scoring one goal so far in his loan spell, McNeill remains optimistic about his future. He believes that playing in League Two will help him develop as a player and prepare him for the challenges of playing at a higher level. He also credits his time at Manchester United for helping him develop as a player and giving him the opportunity to play alongside some of the best players in the world.
McNeill’s loan spell at Newport County is set to end in May, and it remains to be seen what the future holds for the young striker. However, he is determined to continue working hard and improving his game, and he remains grateful for the opportunities he has had so far in his career.