Despite scoring nine goals in 12 games since his return to Old Trafford, Ronaldo has been criticised by some small sections of the United fanbase as well as a number of pundits, who have questioned whether the forward is suited to the current team.
But Solskjaer believes the player has made an ‘immense’ impact since signing for the club for a second time in August.
“He’s one of the best players that’s ever walked on this planet and his impact on and off the pitch has been absolutely immense,” Solskjaer said.
“The way he conducts himself – he scores goals, works for his team, and is a top, top pro. How people can say that’s a negative – I can’t see that one.”
United will go level on points with City if they win on Saturday after the Old Trafford outfit stemmed their flow of poor results last weekend by defeating Tottenham 3-0 in north London.
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In December, United held the Citizens to a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford, before Solskjaer oversaw a 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium in March.
Solskjaer has a good record against Pep Guardiola and led his team to a league double over City during the 2019/20 campaign.
During that season, United won 2-1 at the Etihad in the run-up to Christmas, before backing that up with a 2-0 win at home three months later.
That victory at Old Trafford 20 months ago was the last derby against Man City supporters were able to watch before the COVID-19 restrictions.
On that occasion, Anthony Martial opening the scoring in the first half before Scott McTominay wrapped up the win deep into stoppage time at the end of the match.
“It’s a special one – the last time we had a Manchester derby with fans in the stadium, the atmosphere was electric,” continued Solskjaer.
“Everyone will still remember that one, more than the dark moments we’ve had. When Scott McTominay scored that goal in the extra time it was a special moment.
“It’s a one-off game – we have to start on the front foot and be ready because a lot depends on who gets on the front foot.”
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