Former Manchester United players Bebé and Radamel Falcao combined last night to seal newly promoted Rayo Vallecano a famous, last gasp win away to Athletic Bilbao.
In the 95th minute, the former delivered a delightful cross for 'El Tigre', who headed home to secured his new employers' first victory on the road this season.
Advert
It's fair to say that since joining the Madrid-based side, both players have enjoyed new leases of life. After joining initially on loan in 2015, Bebé has made close to 130 appearances, scoring 17 goals and recording 15 assists. Meanwhile Falcao, who only joined this summer after leaving Galatasaray, has rediscovered his goal-scoring form, netting twice in two cameos off the substitutes' bench.
This is a far cry from the Bebé and Falcao we previously saw at Old Trafford. After signing for a fee reported to be in excess of £7 million, great things were expected of the Portuguese winger.
However, the 31 year old made just 7 appearances in 4 years in England and spent time on loan at a number of clubs, including Beşiktaş and Rio Ave, again in Portugal.
Similarly, there was real optimism when Falcao made the move in September 2014. Prior to signing, the striker carried the reputation of being one of the best strikers in the world, winning and starring in the Europa League on two occasions.
Advert
Despite a positive start in the Premier League, scoring in one of his first appearances against Everton, the Columbian didn't quite crack it, with manager Louis van Gaal leaving him out of several squads in the second half of the season due to his indifferent form and fitness. In total, he found the back of the net just four times whilst at The Red Devils.
That said, many Manchester United fans still have a great deal of affection for the legendary number 9.
"The man they called El Tigre remained a popular figure among our fans throughout his year in red," Mark Froggart wrote on the official Manchester United website in 2018. "That was emphasised by the chant in his name that became a terrace anthem. That is arguably his legacy at the club.
There is undoubtedly a sympathetic feeling towards the Columbian. Whilst Falcao may not be the powerhouse of 2013, when he was arguably the most feared striker in football, he has undoubtedly rediscovered his mojo in front of goal and it's a joy to see."
Advert
Let's hope that he and Bebé can continue to combine and make history with 'Los Franjirrojos' this season.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Rayo Vallecano, Louis van Gaal, Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson, Premier League, Portugal, Radamel Falcao
