Sir Alex Ferguson was so happy to see Cristiano Ronaldo before Newcastle game

De Gea, who has played a key role in United's season thus far, was presented with an award to mark his expected 500th appearance for the Reds – making him only the 11th player to enter the exclusive ‘500 club’. 

Ronaldo, meanwhile, received an award for his achievement in reaching 700 club goals over the course of his incredible career. And who better to present the trophy than Ferguson.

Last year, Ronaldo and Ferguson reunited for a heartwarming chat to discuss their special relationship, with one story in particular highlighting the bond they had.

They shared so many memories together in the years to follow, but the one that sticks out for Ronaldo isn't football related.

In a sit down chat with Ferguson, he revealed that his former manager allowed him to leave Manchester during the season so he could see his sick father.

Ronaldo said: "Probably he doesn't remember, but I will say it because it's a beautiful story.

"One day, my father was in hospital, and I was so emotional, very low. And I spoke with him and he said: ‘Cristiano, go there for two or three days.’ We had difficult games and I was a key player in that moment. 

“He said: ‘It will be tough because we have difficult games, but I understand your situation and I’ll leave you [out] and you can go and see your father.’ For me, these are the most important things – apart from winning Champions Leagues, to win the Premier League, to win cups and stuff. So I have to appreciate him, because what he said to me, he always did. I have to appreciate that.”