Just 12 starts in three seasons is something that needs improving but starts are going to be few and far between because of the form of United’s current strike force and of course the poor form of Macheda himself when he was given the chance.
He was sent out for loan spells at Sampdoria and Queens Park Rangers, but injury to the ankle cut his Loftus Road stay and he has not played competitively since February.
But Macheda is now back at Old Trafford with a new outlook and he is determined to show Sir Alex Ferguson that he has got what it takes to be a regular in the side.
Speaking to the club’s official website, he said: "It's great to be back at Manchester United. When you go on loan you really understand how important it is to play for this club.
"I'm really happy to be back and I can't wait for the start of the season.
"Last season was disappointing. In the first six months I didn't get a lot of opportunities here so we decided it was best for me to go on loan.
"When I got to QPR things went a bit wrong, though, as I was feeling my ankle a lot. But now I feel a lot better and want to start the season well. It's a big season for me."