Cristiano Ronaldo's replacement in the popularity poll among Chinese fans is short, stubby, nicknamed "Pang Zi" (big boy) and is more cute than handsome.

It's not exactly the ideal makeup of a Manchester United idol, but Wayne Rooney is one of the biggest reasons why the Red Devils' fame has continued to soar in China without Ronaldo.

"I love him. He is simple and so cute," said Li Jia, a high school student from Hangzhou where Man U had an exhibition match with Hangzhou Greentown on Sunday. "Some of my schoolmates had supported Man United because of Ronaldo. But after he left, we found that Rooney is really an intriguing guy. He has a different face, personality and a distinct soccer style from Ronaldo."