Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo thanked Manchester United fans for their reception last night.

Ronaldo paid tribute to the United fans and claimed he will "never forget" the ovation that greeted his appearance prior to kick-off at the Theatre of Dreams, his first since leaving for Spain and the Santiago Bernabeu in 2009.

"It was an unbelievable night, a very emotional night and what the supporters did for me was massive," Ronaldo told MUTV. "I am never going to forget that moment. The only words I can say are that it was unbelievable.

"For one side I feel happy, for Madrid to go through to the next round, but for the other side I feel a little bit sad because it is not easy to forget this home. I played for six years here and the people were very nice to me. I came here like a child. It was quite a strange feeling.

"Not just for this game, but the first game too. I felt a little but shy in my game and I have feelings which I can't explain. I am happy because Madrid got through, I defend my colleagues and I play for Madrid so I try to do my best all of the time."

Ronaldo, who scored 118 goals in 292 appearances over six trophy-laden years with United, entered the home dressing room after the match to speak with his ex-teammates, consoling them on the result.