<p>Cristiano Ronaldo has responded to the media reports and rumours that he was looking forward to returning to the La Liga club Real Madrid. Taking to his official Instagram, the Juventus star wrote that his "story at Real Madrid has been written".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also added that such talks are "disrespectful" to both him and "to all the clubs involved in these rumours, as well as to their players and staff". The Portuguese star said that he is "breaking" his silence as he can't allow people to "keep playing around with my name".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm breaking my silence now to say that I can’t allow people to keep playing around with my name. I remain focused on my career and in my work, committed and prepared for all the challenges that I have to face. Everything else? Everything else is just talk," said Ronaldo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zakia-khudadadis-dream-of-becoming-first-afghan-female-paralympian-shattered-due-to-taliban-takeover-chaos-406300">Zakia Khudadadi's dream of becoming first Afghan female Paralympian shattered due to Taliban takeover chaos</a></strong></p>

<p>It is imperative to note that Ronaldo has been the subject of a series of rumours about his future this summer. One of the Italian paper said that Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes had offered the 36-year-old to Manchester City.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another outlet wrote that Paris Saint-Germain were also interested but stepped back once they pulled off the signing of the close season, bringing free agent Lionel Messi to the French capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-will-be-held-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-fears-organisers-406039">Tokyo Paralympics will be held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 fears: Organisers</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSr6U6agU4_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSr6U6agU4_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSr6U6agU4_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSr6U6agU4_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In his statement, Ronaldo wrote, "Anyone who knows me is aware of how focused I am on my work. Less talk and more action, this has been my guiding motto since the start of my career. However, in view of everything that’s been said and written recently, I have to set out my position."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"More than the disrespect for me as a man and as a player, the frivolous way that my future is covered in the media is disrespectful to all the clubs involved in these rumours, as well as to their players and staff.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My story at Real Madrid has been written. It’s been recorded. In words and numbers, in trophies and titles, in records and in headlines. It’s in the Museum at the Bernabeu Stadium and it’s also in the minds of every fan of the club. And beyond what I achieved, I remember that in those nine years I had a relationship of deep affection and respect for “merengue afición”, an affection and respect that I retain to this day, and that I will always cherish. I know that the true Real Madrid fans will continue to have me in their hearts, and I will have them in mine," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As well as this most recent episode in Spain, there have been frequent news and stories associating me with a number of clubs in many different Leagues, with nobody ever being concerned about trying to find out the actual truth," he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before Ronaldo's social media statement, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti also said he was not going to take the Juventus forward back to Spain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Carlo Ancelotti" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c9f8a60-4063-4325-932b-859e7da09fcf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ronaldo.PNG" /></p>

<p>Ancelotti said that Real Madrid were not interested in the return of the man who fired the club to four Champions League triumphs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Cristiano is a Real Madrid legend and he has all my love and respect. I have never considered signing him. We look forward," Ancelotti said on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since moving to Juve in 2018, Ronaldo has won two Serie A titles and one Italian Cup, but has not brought the European glory the Italian club craves.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo has responded to the media reports and rumours that he was looking forward to returning to the La Liga club Real Madrid. Taking to his official Instagram, the Juventus star wrote that his "story at Real Madrid has been written".

Cristiano Ronaldo has responded to the media reports and rumours that he was looking forward to returning to the La Liga club Real Madrid. Taking to his official Instagram, the Juventus star wrote that his "story at Real Madrid has been written". He also added that such talks are "disrespectful" to both him and "to all the clubs involved in these rumours, as well as to their players and staff". The Portuguese star said that he is "breaking" his silence as he can't allow people to "keep playing around with my name". "I'm breaking my silence now to say that I can’t allow people to keep playing around with my name. I remain focused on my career and in my work, committed and prepared for all the challenges that I have to face. Everything else? Everything else is just talk," said Ronaldo. ALSO READ | Zakia Khudadadi's dream of becoming first Afghan female Paralympian shattered due to Taliban takeover chaos It is imperative to note that Ronaldo has been the subject of a series of rumours about his future this summer. One of the Italian paper said that Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes had offered the 36-year-old to Manchester City. Another outlet wrote that Paris Saint-Germain were also interested but stepped back once they pulled off the signing of the close season, bringing free agent Lionel Messi to the French capital. ALSO READ | Tokyo Paralympics will be held behind closed doors due to COVID-19 fears: Organisers View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) × In his statement, Ronaldo wrote, "Anyone who knows me is aware of how focused I am on my work. Less talk and more action, this has been my guiding motto since the start of my career. However, in view of everything that’s been said and written recently, I have to set out my position." "More than the disrespect for me as a man and as a player, the frivolous way that my future is covered in the media is disrespectful to all the clubs involved in these rumours, as well as to their players and staff. "My story at Real Madrid has been written. It’s been recorded. In words and numbers, in trophies and titles, in records and in headlines. It’s in the Museum at the Bernabeu Stadium and it’s also in the minds of every fan of the club. And beyond what I achieved, I remember that in those nine years I had a relationship of deep affection and respect for “merengue afición”, an affection and respect that I retain to this day, and that I will always cherish. I know that the true Real Madrid fans will continue to have me in their hearts, and I will have them in mine," he added. "As well as this most recent episode in Spain, there have been frequent news and stories associating me with a number of clubs in many different Leagues, with nobody ever being concerned about trying to find out the actual truth," he wrote. Before Ronaldo's social media statement, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti also said he was not going to take the Juventus forward back to Spain. Ancelotti said that Real Madrid were not interested in the return of the man who fired the club to four Champions League triumphs. "Cristiano is a Real Madrid legend and he has all my love and respect. I have never considered signing him. We look forward," Ancelotti said on Twitter. Since moving to Juve in 2018, Ronaldo has won two Serie A titles and one Italian Cup, but has not brought the European glory the Italian club craves.

Football - 'I'm breaking my silence...': Cristiano Ronaldo reacts on Real Madrid 'return' rumours

<p>Paris Saint-Germain probably did the best business in the current transfer season as they signed top five football stars, out of which four of them were free agents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a></p>

<p>But are they done yet? Rumours have it that the French giants are looking to replace Kylian Mbappe with the Portuguese star and five-time Ballon D'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo in the year 2022.</p>

<p>Former Barcelona star Lionel Messi, recently, joined Paris Saint-Germain on a two-year deal. The Argentine will feature along with his former Barca teammate Neymar and the upcoming football star Kylian Mbappe this season.</p>

<p>However, with just one year left on his contract, Kylian Mbappe has always shown interest in joining Real Madrid and PSG's president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, could replace the footballer with Cristiano Ronaldo in 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-lionel-messi-to-sergio-ramos-paris-saint-germain-fifa-like-playing-xi-for-upcoming-ligue-1-season-404576" hreflang="en">From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season</a></p>

<p>Does this mean we will get to see Messi and Ronaldo for the same team? According to Spanish publication AS, PSG are already planning for 2022 and see Cristiano Ronaldo donning the club's jersey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the reports, Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, has been informed about PSG's plans. The club already has&nbsp;stars like Messi, Ramos, Neymar, Hakimi and Ronaldo's entry would complete President Nasser's dream team.&nbsp;</p>


Paris Saint-Germain probably did the best business in the current transfer season as they signed top five football stars, out of which four of them were free agents.

Paris Saint-Germain probably did the best business in the current transfer season as they signed top five football stars, out of which four of them were free agents. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures But are they done yet? Rumours have it that the French giants are looking to replace Kylian Mbappe with the Portuguese star and five-time Ballon D'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo in the year 2022. Former Barcelona star Lionel Messi, recently, joined Paris Saint-Germain on a two-year deal. The Argentine will feature along with his former Barca teammate Neymar and the upcoming football star Kylian Mbappe this season. However, with just one year left on his contract, Kylian Mbappe has always shown interest in joining Real Madrid and PSG's president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, could replace the footballer with Cristiano Ronaldo in 2022. ALSO READ: From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season Does this mean we will get to see Messi and Ronaldo for the same team? According to Spanish publication AS, PSG are already planning for 2022 and see Cristiano Ronaldo donning the club's jersey. As per the reports, Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, has been informed about PSG's plans. The club already has stars like Messi, Ramos, Neymar, Hakimi and Ronaldo's entry would complete President Nasser's dream team.

Football - Cristiano Ronaldo to play along with Lionel Messi? PSG to prepare deal in 2022: Reports

<p>Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo keep on ruling the features. The Argentine finished a free exchange to Paris Saint-Germain today. Following that, Lille player Jose Fonte has uncovered that he's been welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to shift to Ligue 1 also and go along with him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I feel great because it’s incredible to hear a player like Lionel Messi is in French football in our league. It’s exciting. Obviously, in terms of competitors, it’s going to be even harder for us but we’re up for a challenge – I’m texting Cristiano to come to Lille every day! He’s only replied ‘ha ha ha’,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lionel-messi-joins-paris-saint-germain-signs-two-year-contract-with-club-404557" hreflang="en">Football: Lionel Messi joins Paris-Saint Germain, signs two-year contract with club</a></p>

<p>"Imagine if we keep a clean sheet against them! It will just value us even more even if we do it," he added.</p>

<p>"Incredible front three. Are they going to defend? I don't know. It will be interesting to see the competitiveness of the league this year."</p>

<p>Jose Fonte and Cristiano Ronaldo have a decent relationship. The pair share the dressing room in the Portuguese national group and were both chosen to represent their country at the European Championships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Portugal came to the Round of 16 in the competition with Cristiano Ronaldo winding up as the top scorer of the competition with five goals and one assist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the interim, Lionel Messi has been announced as a Paris Saint-Germain player in a noteworthy free exchange.</p>

<p>The Argentine has marked a two-year manage the French goliaths that will see him pocket an incredible €35 million net for every annum. Lionel Messi will connect up with Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappe in PSG's assault for the impending season.</p>


Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo keep on ruling the features. The Argentine finished a free exchange to Paris Saint-Germain today. Following that, Lille player Jose Fonte has uncovered that he's been welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to shift to Ligue 1 also and go along with him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo keep on ruling the features. The Argentine finished a free exchange to Paris Saint-Germain today. Following that, Lille player Jose Fonte has uncovered that he's been welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to shift to Ligue 1 also and go along with him at the Stade Pierre Mauroy. “I feel great because it’s incredible to hear a player like Lionel Messi is in French football in our league. It’s exciting. Obviously, in terms of competitors, it’s going to be even harder for us but we’re up for a challenge – I’m texting Cristiano to come to Lille every day! He’s only replied ‘ha ha ha’,” he said. ALSO READ: Football: Lionel Messi joins Paris-Saint Germain, signs two-year contract with club "Imagine if we keep a clean sheet against them! It will just value us even more even if we do it," he added. "Incredible front three. Are they going to defend? I don't know. It will be interesting to see the competitiveness of the league this year." Jose Fonte and Cristiano Ronaldo have a decent relationship. The pair share the dressing room in the Portuguese national group and were both chosen to represent their country at the European Championships. Portugal came to the Round of 16 in the competition with Cristiano Ronaldo winding up as the top scorer of the competition with five goals and one assist. In the interim, Lionel Messi has been announced as a Paris Saint-Germain player in a noteworthy free exchange. The Argentine has marked a two-year manage the French goliaths that will see him pocket an incredible €35 million net for every annum. Lionel Messi will connect up with Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappe in PSG's assault for the impending season.

Football: Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Ligue 1 player asking him to join Lionel Messi in France

<p>Former Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri has revealed that Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo was difficult to manage during his time with the Italian side as he had to consider the “personal interests” of the Portugal striker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 62-year-old, who was appointed as Lazio's head coach last month, was sacked by Juventus last year despite taking them to a Serie A win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Ronaldo is not easy to manage, he is a multinational company with personal interests that must be combined with those of the team. I consider myself to be better at being a coach than a manager,” Sarri told Sport Italia.</p>

<p>“There are also a lot of positive aspects, because Ronaldo will bring results home in the end, and they are important results.</p>

<p>“He represents something that goes beyond the club, with more than 200 million followers on social media, but this is a problem in our society. Unfortunately, there is too much talk about players and little about teams.”</p>

<p>Sarri felt that his efforts in Juventus were underappreciated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We won the Scudetto without even celebrating it, everyone just went to dinner on their own,” Sarri said.</p>

<p>“The league title was taken for granted, inside and outside the club. But this year I saw them celebrating finishing fourth, so maybe those were the ideal conditions for going to Juve.”</p>


Former Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri has revealed that Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo was difficult to manage during his time with the Italian side as he had to consider the “personal interests” of the Portugal striker.

Former Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri has revealed that Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo was difficult to manage during his time with the Italian side as he had to consider the “personal interests” of the Portugal striker. The 62-year-old, who was appointed as Lazio's head coach last month, was sacked by Juventus last year despite taking them to a Serie A win. “Ronaldo is not easy to manage, he is a multinational company with personal interests that must be combined with those of the team. I consider myself to be better at being a coach than a manager,” Sarri told Sport Italia. “There are also a lot of positive aspects, because Ronaldo will bring results home in the end, and they are important results. “He represents something that goes beyond the club, with more than 200 million followers on social media, but this is a problem in our society. Unfortunately, there is too much talk about players and little about teams.” Sarri felt that his efforts in Juventus were underappreciated. “We won the Scudetto without even celebrating it, everyone just went to dinner on their own,” Sarri said. “The league title was taken for granted, inside and outside the club. But this year I saw them celebrating finishing fourth, so maybe those were the ideal conditions for going to Juve.”

Football- 'Ronaldo is not easy to manage', reveals Maurizio Sarri

<p>Belgium's Romelu Lukaku believes he should be classified now as a world-class striker and says everything fell into place for him in the season just finished, as he looks ahead to meeting Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the European Championship on Sunday.</p>

<p>The comparison with the two has dominated the build-up to the last-16 clash between holders Portugal and top-ranked Belgium in Seville, in what could be the clash of the round.</p>

<p>Ronaldo is one goal away from setting a new record for most national team goals, while Lukaku is Belgium’s top scorer with 63 in 96 international appearances.</p>

<p>"At his age, he continues to shine and I'm going to try and get as close to his achievements as possible," Lukaku said of his Portuguese rival, who he added was a major source of inspiration and motivation.</p>

<p>"Oh, I need competition. When someone says he's better than me, I want to transcend him. Ronaldo wants to be the best at everything,&nbsp;Kylian&nbsp;Mbappe also wants to win everything," Lukaku told reporters.</p>

<p>"I've taken a big step. Robert&nbsp;Lewandowski, Karim&nbsp;Benzema, and Harry Kane used to be talked about as world-class strikers. For me, those sort of comment was always limited to: 'He is in shape'. Well, now I'm world-class, too. That was my personal goal.</p>

<p>"It was important to start winning trophies, and the Serie A title with Inter gave me motivation and now I also want to win with the Red Devils. It would be the ultimate recognition for this team. If I play badly I will be really disappointed in myself and the team, because now is the right time to harvest."</p>

<p>Belgium’s golden generation has been top of the FIFA rankings for almost three years but is without a major tournament triumph, losing in the semi-finals of Russia 2018 to France three years ago.</p>

<p>"We were not mature enough at the World Cup against France. We tried too hard to do well and were beaten. Now we know how to win in many different kinds of ways.”</p>

<p>In a separate Saturday interview on Belgian television, Lukaku said success at Euro 2020 would cap a dream season.</p>

<p>"Everything has finally fallen into place this season. I have worked very hard in recent years and worked under the right coach at the right time. I analyzed myself a lot, and that really made a difference in playing better," he added.</p>


Belgium's Romelu Lukaku believes he should be classified now as a world-class striker and says everything fell into place for him in the season just finished, as he looks ahead to meeting Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the European Championship on Sunday.

Belgium's Romelu Lukaku believes he should be classified now as a world-class striker and says everything fell into place for him in the season just finished, as he looks ahead to meeting Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the European Championship on Sunday. The comparison with the two has dominated the build-up to the last-16 clash between holders Portugal and top-ranked Belgium in Seville, in what could be the clash of the round. Ronaldo is one goal away from setting a new record for most national team goals, while Lukaku is Belgium’s top scorer with 63 in 96 international appearances. "At his age, he continues to shine and I'm going to try and get as close to his achievements as possible," Lukaku said of his Portuguese rival, who he added was a major source of inspiration and motivation. "Oh, I need competition. When someone says he's better than me, I want to transcend him. Ronaldo wants to be the best at everything, Kylian Mbappe also wants to win everything," Lukaku told reporters. "I've taken a big step. Robert Lewandowski, Karim Benzema, and Harry Kane used to be talked about as world-class strikers. For me, those sort of comment was always limited to: 'He is in shape'. Well, now I'm world-class, too. That was my personal goal. "It was important to start winning trophies, and the Serie A title with Inter gave me motivation and now I also want to win with the Red Devils. It would be the ultimate recognition for this team. If I play badly I will be really disappointed in myself and the team, because now is the right time to harvest." Belgium’s golden generation has been top of the FIFA rankings for almost three years but is without a major tournament triumph, losing in the semi-finals of Russia 2018 to France three years ago. "We were not mature enough at the World Cup against France. We tried too hard to do well and were beaten. Now we know how to win in many different kinds of ways.” In a separate Saturday interview on Belgian television, Lukaku said success at Euro 2020 would cap a dream season. "Everything has finally fallen into place this season. I have worked very hard in recent years and worked under the right coach at the right time. I analyzed myself a lot, and that really made a difference in playing better," he added.

Football: Romelu Lukaku says he is world class striker but still chasing Cristiano Ronaldo

<p class="MsoNormal">Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday equalised former Iranian striker Ali Daei’s all-time international goal-scoring record as the Portuguese maestro scored his 109th goal for Portugal in Euro 2020 match against France.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Portuguese forward, also the leading goal-scorer in Euro history, netted a brace from the penalty spot to help his side reach the knockouts of the tournament while also matching the iconic record in his 178th international match.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The 36-year-old is also the first to appear at five editions of the Euro and has already netted five goals in three Group F matches. While Portugal, Germany and France qualified from the ‘group of death’, Hungary missed out on qualification despite a gutsy fight.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Juventus forward has now 14 European Championship goals, five more than French legend Michel Platini.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ronaldo bagged his first international goal in Euro 2004 and has since risen as one of the all-time greats if not the greatest footballer.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-late-goretzka-equaliser-against-hungary-sends-germany-into-last-16-393556" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: Late Goretzka equaliser against Hungary sends Germany into last 16</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Daei, nicknamed the 'Shariar' (King in Persian), scored a remarkable 109 goals in 149 appearances for Iran between 1993 and 2006, an achievement many thought would never be matched.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Daei has said on several occasions that he would be "delighted" if Ronaldo broke his record, as he believes the Juventus striker ranks among the best three players in history, alongside Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Congratulations to @cristiano who is now one goal away from breaking the men's international goal scoring record," Daei posted on Instagram. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I am honoured that this remarkable achievement will belong to Ronaldo - great champion of football and caring humanist who inspires and impacts lives throughout the world."<o:p></o:p></p>


Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday equalised former Iranian striker Ali Daei’s all-time international goal-scoring record as the Portuguese maestro scored his 109th goal for Portugal in Euro 2020 match against France.

Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday equalised former Iranian striker Ali Daei’s all-time international goal-scoring record as the Portuguese maestro scored his 109th goal for Portugal in Euro 2020 match against France. The Portuguese forward, also the leading goal-scorer in Euro history, netted a brace from the penalty spot to help his side reach the knockouts of the tournament while also matching the iconic record in his 178th international match. The 36-year-old is also the first to appear at five editions of the Euro and has already netted five goals in three Group F matches. While Portugal, Germany and France qualified from the ‘group of death’, Hungary missed out on qualification despite a gutsy fight. The Juventus forward has now 14 European Championship goals, five more than French legend Michel Platini. Ronaldo bagged his first international goal in Euro 2004 and has since risen as one of the all-time greats if not the greatest footballer. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Late Goretzka equaliser against Hungary sends Germany into last 16 Daei, nicknamed the 'Shariar' (King in Persian), scored a remarkable 109 goals in 149 appearances for Iran between 1993 and 2006, an achievement many thought would never be matched. Daei has said on several occasions that he would be "delighted" if Ronaldo broke his record, as he believes the Juventus striker ranks among the best three players in history, alongside Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. "Congratulations to @cristiano who is now one goal away from breaking the men's international goal scoring record," Daei posted on Instagram. "I am honoured that this remarkable achievement will belong to Ronaldo - great champion of football and caring humanist who inspires and impacts lives throughout the world."

Football: Cristiano Ronaldo equals Ali Daei's record with his 109th international goal

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo shaved $4 billion from Coca-Cola shares after he swapped their bottles for water at a press conference. But the marquee striker didn't always hate Coke. Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: Ronaldo takes the fizz out of Coke

<p>Following Cristiano Ronaldo's removal of Coca-Cola bottles from a Euro 2020 news conference on Monday, the company's market value was slashed by $4 billion.</p>

<p>When the soft drinks were brought in front of Ronaldo's seat during a press conference ahead of Portugal's game against Hungary on Monday. The 36-year-old hid them from the display and advised them to instead 'drink water.'</p>

<p>The gesture was timed to coincide with a big drop in Coca-Cola's stock price.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-removes-coca-cola-bottles-at-euro-2020-press-conference-advises-to-drink-water-391607"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo removes Coca-Cola bottles at Euro 2020 press conference, advises to drink water</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>The Incident</strong></p>

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo was discontent with Euro 2020 coordinators for keeping two Coca-Cola bottles in the press conference room. The American drink organization is the sponsor of Euro 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In any case, after seeing the Coca-Cola bottles before him in the press conference room, Cristiano Ronaldo immediately removed the bottles from the camera and lifted a bottle of water, and said "agua" (water), asking individuals to drink water over such sweet beverages.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Do NOT put Coca Cola in front of Cristiano Ronaldo 😠<br />
<br />
This is absolutely brilliant 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/bw9FYlTOI4">pic.twitter.com/bw9FYlTOI4</a></p>
— Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1404716751988928515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Ronaldo is one of the game's fittest players. To perform well on the football field, he is known to follow a stringent diet and fitness routine.</p>

<p>Ronaldo just scored two goals against Hungary to surpass France's Michel Platini as the all-time leading goal scorer with 11 goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Following Cristiano Ronaldo's removal of Coca-Cola bottles from a Euro 2020 news conference on Monday, the company's market value was slashed by $4 billion. When the soft drinks were brought in front of Ronaldo's seat during a press conference ahead of Portugal's game against Hungary on Monday.

Following Cristiano Ronaldo's removal of Coca-Cola bottles from a Euro 2020 news conference on Monday, the company's market value was slashed by $4 billion. When the soft drinks were brought in front of Ronaldo's seat during a press conference ahead of Portugal's game against Hungary on Monday. The 36-year-old hid them from the display and advised them to instead 'drink water.' The gesture was timed to coincide with a big drop in Coca-Cola's stock price. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo removes Coca-Cola bottles at Euro 2020 press conference, advises to drink water The Incident Cristiano Ronaldo was discontent with Euro 2020 coordinators for keeping two Coca-Cola bottles in the press conference room. The American drink organization is the sponsor of Euro 2020. In any case, after seeing the Coca-Cola bottles before him in the press conference room, Cristiano Ronaldo immediately removed the bottles from the camera and lifted a bottle of water, and said "agua" (water), asking individuals to drink water over such sweet beverages. Do NOT put Coca Cola in front of Cristiano Ronaldo 😠 This is absolutely brilliant 🤣 pic.twitter.com/bw9FYlTOI4 — Goal (@goal) June 15, 2021 × Ronaldo is one of the game's fittest players. To perform well on the football field, he is known to follow a stringent diet and fitness routine. Ronaldo just scored two goals against Hungary to surpass France's Michel Platini as the all-time leading goal scorer with 11 goals. (With inputs from agencies)

Coca Cola loses $4 billion as Cristiano Ronaldo removes soft drink bottles at a presser

<p>Some people doubted whether, after a long and arduous season, 36-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo could still produce the goods for his country, but after Portugal's 3-0 win over Hungary in their Euro 2020 opener on Tuesday, the doubters have their answer.</p>

<p>Portugal, the champions in 2016, came into the rearranged tournament as one of the favourites given the attacking talent at coach Fernando Santos' disposal.</p>

<p>Bruno Fernandes has enjoyed a prolific season at Manchester United and is already one of the club's most crucial players; Diogo Jota has hit the ground running at Liverpool; and Bernardo Silva played a crucial part in Manchester City's Premier League title win.</p>

<p>But as the Premier League trio flattered to deceive in front of a packed, boisterous crowd in Budapest, and Hungary's defence stood firm, Portugal again needed their relentless talisman to pull them through.</p>

<p>He left it late, but he did not disappoint.</p>

<p>It was also a case of another day, another record for Ronaldo. The penalty he converted to put Portugal 2-0 up in the 87th minute ensured he became the first player in European Championship Finals history to reach 10 goals overall, and then 11 with an injury-time strike, overtaking Michel Platini's record of nine - all scored in the 1984 tournament.</p>

<p>It had looked as though it was going to be a frustrating evening for the Juventus forward. He missed a glorious chance in the first half to open the scoring, with his team mates also lacking composure in front of goal.</p>

<p>Jota has now scored one goal in his last 11 matches for club and country, and was replaced in the second half, with the effects of his injury-hit season clear for all to see.</p>

<p>But after Portugal's fortunate opener six minutes from time, it was all about Ronaldo, who added a coolly taken third 177 seconds after firing home from the penalty spot.</p>

<p>The way in which he remained calm before rounding the goalkeeper for his second of the night proved that even when not at his best, his potency in front of goal, when it matters, remains as lethal as ever.</p>

<p>That is now 106 international goals for the veteran, three off the all-time record set by Iran's Ali Daei.</p>

<p>The desire for more goals and records remains stronger than ever. After this imposing start to the tournament, few would bet against Ronaldo surpassing Daei and adding one more accolade to his ever-growing list before Euro 2020 is out.</p>


Some people doubted whether, after a long and arduous season, 36-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo could still produce the goods for his country, but after Portugal's 3-0 win over Hungary in their Euro 2020 opener on Tuesday, the doubters have their answer.

Some people doubted whether, after a long and arduous season, 36-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo could still produce the goods for his country, but after Portugal's 3-0 win over Hungary in their Euro 2020 opener on Tuesday, the doubters have their answer. Portugal, the champions in 2016, came into the rearranged tournament as one of the favourites given the attacking talent at coach Fernando Santos' disposal. Bruno Fernandes has enjoyed a prolific season at Manchester United and is already one of the club's most crucial players; Diogo Jota has hit the ground running at Liverpool; and Bernardo Silva played a crucial part in Manchester City's Premier League title win. But as the Premier League trio flattered to deceive in front of a packed, boisterous crowd in Budapest, and Hungary's defence stood firm, Portugal again needed their relentless talisman to pull them through. He left it late, but he did not disappoint. It was also a case of another day, another record for Ronaldo. The penalty he converted to put Portugal 2-0 up in the 87th minute ensured he became the first player in European Championship Finals history to reach 10 goals overall, and then 11 with an injury-time strike, overtaking Michel Platini's record of nine - all scored in the 1984 tournament. It had looked as though it was going to be a frustrating evening for the Juventus forward. He missed a glorious chance in the first half to open the scoring, with his team mates also lacking composure in front of goal. Jota has now scored one goal in his last 11 matches for club and country, and was replaced in the second half, with the effects of his injury-hit season clear for all to see. But after Portugal's fortunate opener six minutes from time, it was all about Ronaldo, who added a coolly taken third 177 seconds after firing home from the penalty spot. The way in which he remained calm before rounding the goalkeeper for his second of the night proved that even when not at his best, his potency in front of goal, when it matters, remains as lethal as ever. That is now 106 international goals for the veteran, three off the all-time record set by Iran's Ali Daei. The desire for more goals and records remains stronger than ever. After this imposing start to the tournament, few would bet against Ronaldo surpassing Daei and adding one more accolade to his ever-growing list before Euro 2020 is out.

Euro 2020: Doubts over Ronaldo dispelled as veteran comes up with the goods

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo was discontent with Euro 2020 coordinators for keeping two Coca-Cola bottles in the press conference room. The American drink organization is the sponsor of Euro 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In any case, after seeing the Coca-Cola bottles before him in the press conference room, Cristiano Ronaldo immediately removed the bottles from the camera and lifted a bottle of water, and said "agua" (water), asking individuals to drink water over such sweet beverages.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Do NOT put Coca Cola in front of Cristiano Ronaldo 😠<br />
<br />
This is absolutely brilliant 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/bw9FYlTOI4">pic.twitter.com/bw9FYlTOI4</a></p>
— Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1404716751988928515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Ronaldo has consistently been a tremendous supporter of fitness and wellness all through his profession. It was nothing unexpected to see his discontent with Coca-Cola bottles before him as opposed to something sound.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-premier-league-clubs-suffer-losses-of-nearly-14-bn-during-pandemic-391575" hreflang="en">Football: Premier League clubs suffer losses of nearly $1.4 bn during pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>This would come as a gigantic negative PR to Euro 2020 just as Coca-Cola. The refreshment goliaths are the authority supporters of the competition yet with Ronaldo contradicting the beverage in broad daylight, Euro 2020 coordinators may need to reevaluate their situating of the containers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Ronaldo presently contradicting Coca-Cola before a world crowd at Euro 2020, the organization should view things all the more appropriately in advertising its image in football competitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ronaldo is because of lead his Portugal side against Hungary in their initial game at Euro 2020. Portugal have been brought into the "Group of death" close by ruling World Cup champs France and Germany. Ronaldo realizes that success against Hungary will be significant if Portugal needs to fit the bill for the knockout rounds of Euro 2020.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo was discontent with Euro 2020 coordinators for keeping two Coca-Cola bottles in the press conference room. The American drink organization is the sponsor of Euro 2020.

Cristiano Ronaldo was discontent with Euro 2020 coordinators for keeping two Coca-Cola bottles in the press conference room. The American drink organization is the sponsor of Euro 2020. In any case, after seeing the Coca-Cola bottles before him in the press conference room, Cristiano Ronaldo immediately removed the bottles from the camera and lifted a bottle of water, and said "agua" (water), asking individuals to drink water over such sweet beverages. Do NOT put Coca Cola in front of Cristiano Ronaldo 😠 This is absolutely brilliant 🤣 pic.twitter.com/bw9FYlTOI4 — Goal (@goal) June 15, 2021 × Ronaldo has consistently been a tremendous supporter of fitness and wellness all through his profession. It was nothing unexpected to see his discontent with Coca-Cola bottles before him as opposed to something sound. ALSO READ: Football: Premier League clubs suffer losses of nearly $1.4 bn during pandemic This would come as a gigantic negative PR to Euro 2020 just as Coca-Cola. The refreshment goliaths are the authority supporters of the competition yet with Ronaldo contradicting the beverage in broad daylight, Euro 2020 coordinators may need to reevaluate their situating of the containers. With Ronaldo presently contradicting Coca-Cola before a world crowd at Euro 2020, the organization should view things all the more appropriately in advertising its image in football competitions. Ronaldo is because of lead his Portugal side against Hungary in their initial game at Euro 2020. Portugal have been brought into the "Group of death" close by ruling World Cup champs France and Germany. Ronaldo realizes that success against Hungary will be significant if Portugal needs to fit the bill for the knockout rounds of Euro 2020.

Football: Cristiano Ronaldo removes Coca-Cola bottles at Euro 2020 press conference, advises to drink water

<p>Ronaldo said on &nbsp;Monday he was looking forward to beginning Euro 2020 in front of a packed Puskas Arena against Hungary as he prepares to lead defending champions Portugal in their search for a repeat triumph.</p>

<p>At 36 years old Ronaldo is set take the field in front of 68,000 fans in the Hungarian capital on Tuesday in what should be Portugal's simplest match in a tough Group F alongside Germany and world champions France.</p>

<p>"It's perfect. I wish every single venue could host a full house. It's great for viewers and players, but sadly it's not up to us to decide," said Ronaldo.</p>

<p>"We know the pandemic has its influence. I wish we could always play before a full house."</p>

<p>Portugal have lost Joao Cancelo from their squad to Covid-19 after the Manchester City right-back tested positive for the virus on Sunday, but Ronaldo says the team are not worrying about the pandemic.</p>

<p>"We don't talk about Covid because we're tired of it. It's a sad situation but we're focused... Nothing will shake us... We're just focused on playing.</p>

<p>"I think the team is ready, physically and emotionally. The players are young but that doesn't stop us from dreaming. I know all the players are ready."</p>

<p>The Portugal captain is set to become the first person to play in at least one match at five European Championships, and also has another record in sight.</p>

<p>He needs just five more goals to equal Iranian Ali Daei's all-time mark of 109 international goals, a feasible target at this summer's tournament should Portugal go deep.</p>

<p>"I'm not the same player I was 18 years ago, 10 years ago, five years ago... you keep adjusting," said Ronaldo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm more mature, if a player wants to play for many years he needs to learn how to adapt. From 18 to 36 years old I've learned to adjust and adapt, and I've always been able to win personally and collectively."</p>

<p>A win over the Magyars would go a long way to ensuring Portugal qualify for the next round at least as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams as coach Fernando Santos targets two Euro titles in a row with a talented squad.</p>

<p>"Right now we think we have what it takes to win the cup," said Santos.</p>

<p>"There are very good opponents, seven or eight teams are playing to take the trophy home, and there are dark horses who also think they have a chance. The only difference is that we hold the title."</p>


Ronaldo said on Monday he was looking forward to beginning Euro 2020 in front of a packed Puskas Arena against Hungary as he prepares to lead defending champions Portugal in their search for a repeat triumph.

Ronaldo said on Monday he was looking forward to beginning Euro 2020 in front of a packed Puskas Arena against Hungary as he prepares to lead defending champions Portugal in their search for a repeat triumph. At 36 years old Ronaldo is set take the field in front of 68,000 fans in the Hungarian capital on Tuesday in what should be Portugal's simplest match in a tough Group F alongside Germany and world champions France. "It's perfect. I wish every single venue could host a full house. It's great for viewers and players, but sadly it's not up to us to decide," said Ronaldo. "We know the pandemic has its influence. I wish we could always play before a full house." Portugal have lost Joao Cancelo from their squad to Covid-19 after the Manchester City right-back tested positive for the virus on Sunday, but Ronaldo says the team are not worrying about the pandemic. "We don't talk about Covid because we're tired of it. It's a sad situation but we're focused... Nothing will shake us... We're just focused on playing. "I think the team is ready, physically and emotionally. The players are young but that doesn't stop us from dreaming. I know all the players are ready." The Portugal captain is set to become the first person to play in at least one match at five European Championships, and also has another record in sight. He needs just five more goals to equal Iranian Ali Daei's all-time mark of 109 international goals, a feasible target at this summer's tournament should Portugal go deep. "I'm not the same player I was 18 years ago, 10 years ago, five years ago... you keep adjusting," said Ronaldo. "I'm more mature, if a player wants to play for many years he needs to learn how to adapt. From 18 to 36 years old I've learned to adjust and adapt, and I've always been able to win personally and collectively." A win over the Magyars would go a long way to ensuring Portugal qualify for the next round at least as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams as coach Fernando Santos targets two Euro titles in a row with a talented squad. "Right now we think we have what it takes to win the cup," said Santos. "There are very good opponents, seven or eight teams are playing to take the trophy home, and there are dark horses who also think they have a chance. The only difference is that we hold the title."

Football: Ronaldo ready for 'perfect' Euro 2020 debut in front of full house

<p>Throughout the long term, fans have been excited to see two of the best footballers ever playing simultaneously. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are competing for their respective league titles&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Champions League crown.</p>

<p>Things being what they are, how could the fans forget the name Sunil Chhetri? All things considered, it's no big surprise that Cristiano Ronaldo is the most dynamic international footballer today. Ronaldo has an amazing 174 caps for Portugal with 103 goals scored. Lionel Messi in 143 caps for Argentina has 72 goals. This is the place where Sunil Chhetri comes in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri is the second-highest active&nbsp;international goalscorer with 74 goals for India. This is an astounding accomplishment for a player whose country isn't&nbsp;in Europe or South America, however, his prosperity for the Indian national team, is unparalleled as far as goals are concerned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It won't be wrong&nbsp;to say that Sunil Chhetri has been leading the Indian national football crew without much assistance for over 10 years. The Indian skipper has protected his team on many occasions, and nobody truly knows where the team would be on the football map without Sunil Chhetri. What will befall Indian football once the alluring striker hangs his boots?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian head coach Igor Stimac knows about the significance of Sunil Chhetri and has stacked applause on his captain after the success against Bangladesh. Be that as it may, he addressed what will befall Indian football once Chhetri resigns.</p>

<p>“Last year, many people were asking last year or so, ‘when is Sunil going to retire?’ What are we going to do then if he retires? By far, in every training session, he&nbsp;is our best player” - he said.</p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri's brace powered the Indian football team&nbsp;as they beat Bangladesh 2-0 in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first goal came when the Indian talisman slipped between the two defenders and headed the ball into the net. The subsequent objective was an only unadulterated virtuoso. Chettri found a way a couple of ways to get the ball with his correct foot, then, at that point passed it past the goalkeeper to finish his brace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the second half, he scored his 73rd and 74th international goals, surpassing Ali Mabhout of the United Arab Emirates, who has 73 goals to his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regardless of whether Sunil Chettri's goals for India got the fans energized, they could be excused in the event that they didn't. All things considered, a nation of 1.3 billion individuals is as yet depending on a 36-year-old to win.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-zidane-to-mourinho-list-of-top-managers-sacked-and-signed-by-football-clubs-389201" hreflang="en">From Zidane to Mourinho: List of top managers sacked and signed by football clubs</a></strong></p>

<p>As a demonstrated goalscorer in his native India, his exhibitions in the Indian Super League have been brilliant lately and this structure regularly appears to the national team. Here he is at chances with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi and the insights represent themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ideally, Sunil Chettri will add to his goals and help India finish third in the passing table for the 2022 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The iconic striker likewise broke the record of incredible Indian striker IM Vijayan who scored the most goals in a World Cup qualifying win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In spite of the fact that Chhetri could play universally against low-level groups, his accomplishments are in no way, shape or form precluded.</p>


Throughout the long term, fans have been excited to see two of the best footballers ever playing simultaneously. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are competing for their respective league titles and the Champions League crown.

Throughout the long term, fans have been excited to see two of the best footballers ever playing simultaneously. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are competing for their respective league titles and the Champions League crown. Things being what they are, how could the fans forget the name Sunil Chhetri? All things considered, it's no big surprise that Cristiano Ronaldo is the most dynamic international footballer today. Ronaldo has an amazing 174 caps for Portugal with 103 goals scored. Lionel Messi in 143 caps for Argentina has 72 goals. This is the place where Sunil Chhetri comes in. Sunil Chhetri is the second-highest active international goalscorer with 74 goals for India. This is an astounding accomplishment for a player whose country isn't in Europe or South America, however, his prosperity for the Indian national team, is unparalleled as far as goals are concerned. It won't be wrong to say that Sunil Chhetri has been leading the Indian national football crew without much assistance for over 10 years. The Indian skipper has protected his team on many occasions, and nobody truly knows where the team would be on the football map without Sunil Chhetri. What will befall Indian football once the alluring striker hangs his boots? Indian head coach Igor Stimac knows about the significance of Sunil Chhetri and has stacked applause on his captain after the success against Bangladesh. Be that as it may, he addressed what will befall Indian football once Chhetri resigns. “Last year, many people were asking last year or so, ‘when is Sunil going to retire?’ What are we going to do then if he retires? By far, in every training session, he is our best player” - he said. Sunil Chhetri's brace powered the Indian football team as they beat Bangladesh 2-0 in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. The first goal came when the Indian talisman slipped between the two defenders and headed the ball into the net. The subsequent objective was an only unadulterated virtuoso. Chettri found a way a couple of ways to get the ball with his correct foot, then, at that point passed it past the goalkeeper to finish his brace. In the second half, he scored his 73rd and 74th international goals, surpassing Ali Mabhout of the United Arab Emirates, who has 73 goals to his name. Regardless of whether Sunil Chettri's goals for India got the fans energized, they could be excused in the event that they didn't. All things considered, a nation of 1.3 billion individuals is as yet depending on a 36-year-old to win. ALSO READ: From Zidane to Mourinho: List of top managers sacked and signed by football clubs As a demonstrated goalscorer in his native India, his exhibitions in the Indian Super League have been brilliant lately and this structure regularly appears to the national team. Here he is at chances with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi and the insights represent themselves. Ideally, Sunil Chettri will add to his goals and help India finish third in the passing table for the 2022 World Cup. The iconic striker likewise broke the record of incredible Indian striker IM Vijayan who scored the most goals in a World Cup qualifying win. In spite of the fact that Chhetri could play universally against low-level groups, his accomplishments are in no way, shape or form precluded.

Football: Sunil Chhetri - Captain, leader, legend, and the saviour

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo said he has realised one of the goals he set for himself when he joined Juventus in 2018 and valued everything the club had achieved this season despite their run of nine straight Serie A title coming to an end.</p>

<p>Ronaldo, 36, has one year remaining on his contract at Juventus but there has been a flurry of media speculation that the Portuguese forward could be leaving in the summer.</p>

<p>Juventus were deposed as champions by Inter Milan and only climbed into the top four on the final day of the campaign on Sunday (May 23) to secure Champions League qualification.</p>

<p>"This year we couldn't win Serie A, congratulations to Inter for the well-deserved title. However, I have to value everything that we achieved this season at Juventus, both in collective and individual terms," Ronaldo wrote in an Instagram post on Monday, May 24.</p>

<p>"The Italian Super Cup, Italian Cup and Serie A top scorer trophy fill me with happiness, mainly due to the difficulty they carry with them, in a country where nothing is easy to win.</p>

<p>"With these achievements, I reached a goal I had set myself since the first day I arrived in Italy: to win the championship, the Cup and the Super Cup, and also to be Best Player and Top Scorer in this great&nbsp;football&nbsp;country filled with tremendous players, giant clubs and a very own&nbsp;football&nbsp;culture."</p>

<p>The 36-year-old former Manchester United and Real Madrid player said he was delighted to have won major individual and team honors with clubs in three different countries.</p>

<p>"This is what I work for, this is what moves me and this is what I'll always keep chasing for until the last day," added Ronaldo, who did not play in their 4-1 win over Bologna on the final day.</p>

<p>"Thanks to everyone who took part in this journey. We stand together."</p>

<p>The club declined to comment on the post.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo said he has realised one of the goals he set for himself when he joined Juventus in 2018 and valued everything the club had achieved this season despite their run of nine straight Serie A title coming to an end.

Cristiano Ronaldo said he has realised one of the goals he set for himself when he joined Juventus in 2018 and valued everything the club had achieved this season despite their run of nine straight Serie A title coming to an end. Ronaldo, 36, has one year remaining on his contract at Juventus but there has been a flurry of media speculation that the Portuguese forward could be leaving in the summer. Juventus were deposed as champions by Inter Milan and only climbed into the top four on the final day of the campaign on Sunday (May 23) to secure Champions League qualification. "This year we couldn't win Serie A, congratulations to Inter for the well-deserved title. However, I have to value everything that we achieved this season at Juventus, both in collective and individual terms," Ronaldo wrote in an Instagram post on Monday, May 24. "The Italian Super Cup, Italian Cup and Serie A top scorer trophy fill me with happiness, mainly due to the difficulty they carry with them, in a country where nothing is easy to win. "With these achievements, I reached a goal I had set myself since the first day I arrived in Italy: to win the championship, the Cup and the Super Cup, and also to be Best Player and Top Scorer in this great football country filled with tremendous players, giant clubs and a very own football culture." The 36-year-old former Manchester United and Real Madrid player said he was delighted to have won major individual and team honors with clubs in three different countries. "This is what I work for, this is what moves me and this is what I'll always keep chasing for until the last day," added Ronaldo, who did not play in their 4-1 win over Bologna on the final day. "Thanks to everyone who took part in this journey. We stand together." The club declined to comment on the post.

Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus

<p>Andrea Pirlo has revealed the reason behind Cristiano Ronaldo's exclusion from their starting XI in the 4-1 win over Bologna. Talking after the game, Andrea Pirlo was asked about Cristiano Ronaldo's surprising exit from the playing XI as the Portuguese star warmed the bench for the entire 90 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Juventus manager uncovered the choice not to pick Cristiano Ronaldo was a mutual one between the player and the club's staff. In such a manner, Andrea Pirlo said:</p>

<p>“It was a shared decision, Ronaldo was tired after Wednesday’s game, so I decided to start Morata, another great player. Ronaldo was available, I have a deep squad, and I can pick many different players.”</p>

<p>The choice to leave out Cristiano Ronaldo in ostensibly Juventus' most significant game this season was a strange one. With Champions League qualification on the line, Andrea Pirlo's call additionally brought up issue stamps over Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Juventus.</p>

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus future has been the subject of discussion since the time the Old Lady hit a fix of helpless form. Many anticipated the Portuguese star would move to greener fields if Juventus neglected to meet all requirements for next season's Champions League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In any case, with Champions League capability tied down because of Hellas Verona's 1-1 draw against Napoli, the Juventus chain of importance will trust Cristiano Ronaldo stays in Turin for at any rate another season.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-who-will-challenge-for-man-citys-premier-league-crown-next-season-387037" hreflang="en">Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?</a></strong></p>

<p>Andrea Pirlo was justifiably satisfied with Juventus' qualification for the Champions League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“For me, it was important to finish the job, winning the Coppa Italia and qualifying for the Champions League, which was a very important target," Pirlo said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The 42-year-old Italian manager is positive he will get another season at Juventus following a Coppa Italia title and a top-four finish in Serie A.“I’ve always put in the total commitment, and this is the result. Those who must decide about my future will do it. I see myself on the Juve bench next season, I would confirm myself, but now we must enjoy what we have achieved," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-juventus-and-ac-milan-qualify-for-champions-league-napoli-miss-out-387023" hreflang="en">Football: Juventus and AC Milan qualify for Champions League, Napoli miss out</a></strong></p>

<p>Indeed, even with a UCL spot on the line, Cristiano Ronaldo was the idea all through Juventus' clash with Bologna. Andrea Pirlo additionally ruled against utilizing him as a substitute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alvaro Morata, who began instead of Cristiano Ronaldo, scored two goals as Juventus easily crushed Bologna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regardless of Andrea Pirlo's idea that the choice to drop Cristiano Ronaldo was mutual, there are continually going to be tales encompassing the Portuguese's future. The 36-year-old has been connected with his previous sides Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Andrea Pirlo has revealed the reason behind Cristiano Ronaldo's exclusion from their starting XI in the 4-1 win over Bologna. Talking after the game, Andrea Pirlo was asked about Cristiano Ronaldo's surprising exit from the playing XI as the Portuguese star warmed the bench for the entire 90 minutes.

Andrea Pirlo has revealed the reason behind Cristiano Ronaldo's exclusion from their starting XI in the 4-1 win over Bologna. Talking after the game, Andrea Pirlo was asked about Cristiano Ronaldo's surprising exit from the playing XI as the Portuguese star warmed the bench for the entire 90 minutes. The Juventus manager uncovered the choice not to pick Cristiano Ronaldo was a mutual one between the player and the club's staff. In such a manner, Andrea Pirlo said: “It was a shared decision, Ronaldo was tired after Wednesday’s game, so I decided to start Morata, another great player. Ronaldo was available, I have a deep squad, and I can pick many different players.” The choice to leave out Cristiano Ronaldo in ostensibly Juventus' most significant game this season was a strange one. With Champions League qualification on the line, Andrea Pirlo's call additionally brought up issue stamps over Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Juventus. Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus future has been the subject of discussion since the time the Old Lady hit a fix of helpless form. Many anticipated the Portuguese star would move to greener fields if Juventus neglected to meet all requirements for next season's Champions League. In any case, with Champions League capability tied down because of Hellas Verona's 1-1 draw against Napoli, the Juventus chain of importance will trust Cristiano Ronaldo stays in Turin for at any rate another season. ALSO READ: Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season? Andrea Pirlo was justifiably satisfied with Juventus' qualification for the Champions League. “For me, it was important to finish the job, winning the Coppa Italia and qualifying for the Champions League, which was a very important target," Pirlo said. The 42-year-old Italian manager is positive he will get another season at Juventus following a Coppa Italia title and a top-four finish in Serie A.“I’ve always put in the total commitment, and this is the result. Those who must decide about my future will do it. I see myself on the Juve bench next season, I would confirm myself, but now we must enjoy what we have achieved," he added. ALSO READ: Football: Juventus and AC Milan qualify for Champions League, Napoli miss out Indeed, even with a UCL spot on the line, Cristiano Ronaldo was the idea all through Juventus' clash with Bologna. Andrea Pirlo additionally ruled against utilizing him as a substitute. Alvaro Morata, who began instead of Cristiano Ronaldo, scored two goals as Juventus easily crushed Bologna. Regardless of Andrea Pirlo's idea that the choice to drop Cristiano Ronaldo was mutual, there are continually going to be tales encompassing the Portuguese's future. The 36-year-old has been connected with his previous sides Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon.

Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna

<p>Andrea Pirlo believes Champions League qualification will not be the decisive factor in whether Juventus decide to keep him on as coach for next season.</p>

<p>To clinch a top-four finish, the Turin club must win their final game in Bologna on Sunday and hope AC Milan or Napoli drop points in their games against Atalanta and Hellas Verona.</p>

<p>Failure to reach European soccer’s top club competition would be an enormous disappointment for Juve, winners of nine consecutive league titles before this season, and the situation has resulted in speculation that Pirlo will be replaced.</p>

<p>"I do not think the club will decide based on what happens tomorrow. I think they have an idea of what has been done over the season, what went well and badly," Pirlo told a news conference on Saturday.</p>

<p>"They do not take decisions based on the last match or on one result. It is up to them to decide we will see what happens.</p>

<p>"I like doing this job, it is normal that I would reconfirm my position because I like having this adrenaline and pressure.</p>

<p>"You need to feel the blood running through your veins and I want to continue working with this squad and this club."</p>

<p>Juventus travel to Bologna in a confident mood after beating Atalanta on Wednesday in the Coppa Italia final.</p>

<p>It marked a third consecutive win for Pirlo’s side since a 3-0 defeat by AC Milan earlier in May threatened to derail their top-four hopes.</p>

<p>"We believe. We were dead and buried after the Milan game, but picked ourselves up again. We did that on our own, but the results of other teams also brought us back to life,” Pirlo said.</p>

<p>"We must think first of all about ourselves, looking to play a great game and win, and then see what the others do."</p>

<p>Pirlo also addressed media speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo could depart Juventus if they fail to reach the Champions League.</p>

<p>"I see him still in a black and white shirt and focused," he said.</p>

<p>"He showed that the other night by making sacrifices and chasing because he wanted to win the cup."</p>


Andrea Pirlo believes Champions League qualification will not be the decisive factor in whether Juventus decide to keep him on as coach for next season. To clinch a top-four finish, the Turin club must win their final game in Bologna on Sunday and hope AC Milan or Napoli drop points in their games against Atalanta and Hellas Verona.

Andrea Pirlo believes Champions League qualification will not be the decisive factor in whether Juventus decide to keep him on as coach for next season. To clinch a top-four finish, the Turin club must win their final game in Bologna on Sunday and hope AC Milan or Napoli drop points in their games against Atalanta and Hellas Verona. Failure to reach European soccer’s top club competition would be an enormous disappointment for Juve, winners of nine consecutive league titles before this season, and the situation has resulted in speculation that Pirlo will be replaced. "I do not think the club will decide based on what happens tomorrow. I think they have an idea of what has been done over the season, what went well and badly," Pirlo told a news conference on Saturday. "They do not take decisions based on the last match or on one result. It is up to them to decide we will see what happens. "I like doing this job, it is normal that I would reconfirm my position because I like having this adrenaline and pressure. "You need to feel the blood running through your veins and I want to continue working with this squad and this club." Juventus travel to Bologna in a confident mood after beating Atalanta on Wednesday in the Coppa Italia final. It marked a third consecutive win for Pirlo’s side since a 3-0 defeat by AC Milan earlier in May threatened to derail their top-four hopes. "We believe. We were dead and buried after the Milan game, but picked ourselves up again. We did that on our own, but the results of other teams also brought us back to life,” Pirlo said. "We must think first of all about ourselves, looking to play a great game and win, and then see what the others do." Pirlo also addressed media speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo could depart Juventus if they fail to reach the Champions League. "I see him still in a black and white shirt and focused," he said. "He showed that the other night by making sacrifices and chasing because he wanted to win the cup."

Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo leads a formidable front line for defending European champions Portugal as coach Fernando Santos unveiled his Euro 2020 squad on Thursday.</p>

<p>Ronaldo, who added the Italian Cup to his collection this week and has scored over 100 goals for Juventus, is joined by Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes.</p>

<p>Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix, who can win the Spanish league title this week, and Liverpool striker Diogo Jota complete their frontline for the tournament starting on June 11.</p>

<p>Joining them will be Andre Silva, who has scored more goals in a Bundesliga season than any other Eintracht Frankfurt player.</p>

<p>Santos' list of defenders makes for equally impressive reading as Portugal wants to put up a strong defense of their title.</p>

<p>Ruben Dias was arguably Manchester City's most inspirational player in their dominant run to the Premier League title while club teammate Joao Cancelo has had his best-ever campaign at fullback and complements left-back Raphael Guerreiro perfectly.</p>

<p>Portugal are in Group F along with world champions France, Germany, and Hungary. They will play their last warm-up games against Spain on June 4 and Israel on June 9.</p>

<p>Squad:</p>

<p>Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Olympique Lyon), Rui Patricio (Wolves), Rui Silva (Granada)</p>

<p>Defenders: Joao Cancelo (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Wolves), Jose Fonte (Lille), Pepe (Porto), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Nuno Mendes (Sporting), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund)</p>

<p>Midfielders: Danilo Pereira (Paris St Germain), Joao Palhinha (Sporting), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Joao Moutinho (Wolves), Renato Sanches (Lille), Sergio Oliveira (Porto), William Carvalho (Real Betis)</p>

<p>Forwards: Pedro Goncalves (Sporting), Andre Silva (Eintracht Frankfurt), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus), Diogo Jota (Liverpool), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), Rafa Silva (Benfica).</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo leads a formidable front line for defending European champions Portugal as coach Fernando Santos unveiled his Euro 2020 squad on Thursday. Ronaldo, who added the Italian Cup to his collection this week and has scored over 100 goals for Juventus, is joined by Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes.

Cristiano Ronaldo leads a formidable front line for defending European champions Portugal as coach Fernando Santos unveiled his Euro 2020 squad on Thursday. Ronaldo, who added the Italian Cup to his collection this week and has scored over 100 goals for Juventus, is joined by Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes. Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix, who can win the Spanish league title this week, and Liverpool striker Diogo Jota complete their frontline for the tournament starting on June 11. Joining them will be Andre Silva, who has scored more goals in a Bundesliga season than any other Eintracht Frankfurt player. Santos' list of defenders makes for equally impressive reading as Portugal wants to put up a strong defense of their title. Ruben Dias was arguably Manchester City's most inspirational player in their dominant run to the Premier League title while club teammate Joao Cancelo has had his best-ever campaign at fullback and complements left-back Raphael Guerreiro perfectly. Portugal are in Group F along with world champions France, Germany, and Hungary. They will play their last warm-up games against Spain on June 4 and Israel on June 9. Squad: Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Olympique Lyon), Rui Patricio (Wolves), Rui Silva (Granada) Defenders: Joao Cancelo (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Wolves), Jose Fonte (Lille), Pepe (Porto), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Nuno Mendes (Sporting), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund) Midfielders: Danilo Pereira (Paris St Germain), Joao Palhinha (Sporting), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Joao Moutinho (Wolves), Renato Sanches (Lille), Sergio Oliveira (Porto), William Carvalho (Real Betis) Forwards: Pedro Goncalves (Sporting), Andre Silva (Eintracht Frankfurt), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus), Diogo Jota (Liverpool), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), Rafa Silva (Benfica).

Football: Cristiano Ronaldo leads formidable attack in Portugal's Euro squad

<p class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford has as of late disclosed his definitive Manchester United 6-a-side team, which involves players he watched growing up and one of his present teammates.&nbsp;<br />
He is one of Manchester United's key players and is saturated with the way of life of the club.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford has reliably followed through on the pitch since the appearance of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and has now enrolled in two consecutive 20 goal seasons for</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Manchester United. His count of 21 goals and 15 assists this season has everything except affirmed the second spot in the association for Manchester United while assisting them with arriving at the Europa League finale.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">He was requested to name his best 6-a-side team in an Instagram Q&amp;A session. Marcus Rashford selected David de Gea however conceded that it was a near fiasco between the Spaniard and Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Right, I'm going to go with most players from the teams that I watched when I was growing up. I'd probably have David de Gea, but it was a close one between him and Edwin Van der Sar. When I was a kid, Van der Sar was one of the best keepers, and obviously playing with David has been great, so I'd have to put David in there” - he said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Rashford settled on England defender Rio Ferdinand at the back and picked an attacking lineup with Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney in front. The Manchester United no. 10 showed his humble side by excluding himself in the setup.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“At the back, I'd have Rio Ferdinand. I'm all-out attack there. I'd have Paul Scholesy in front of Rio, Ryan Giggs on the right, Ronaldo on the left, and Rooney in&nbsp;front. I'm not putting myself in. Not yet” – he added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford is a Rooney fan and uncovered that he savored the chance to play close by Manchester United's record goalscorer.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Rooney and Ronaldo were my two favorite players growing up, so to get an opportunity to play with Rooney was an unbelievable experience,” - said Rashford.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford has been an apparatus in the Manchester United team this season, showing up in 55 games in all rivalries. He is second just to Bruno Fernandes, who has played one more game than the Englishman this mission.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Marcus Rashford has as of late disclosed his definitive Manchester United 6-a-side team, which involves players he watched growing up and one of his present teammates.

Marcus Rashford has as of late disclosed his definitive Manchester United 6-a-side team, which involves players he watched growing up and one of his present teammates. He is one of Manchester United's key players and is saturated with the way of life of the club. Marcus Rashford has reliably followed through on the pitch since the appearance of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and has now enrolled in two consecutive 20 goal seasons for Manchester United. His count of 21 goals and 15 assists this season has everything except affirmed the second spot in the association for Manchester United while assisting them with arriving at the Europa League finale. He was requested to name his best 6-a-side team in an Instagram Q&A session. Marcus Rashford selected David de Gea however conceded that it was a near fiasco between the Spaniard and Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar. “Right, I'm going to go with most players from the teams that I watched when I was growing up. I'd probably have David de Gea, but it was a close one between him and Edwin Van der Sar. When I was a kid, Van der Sar was one of the best keepers, and obviously playing with David has been great, so I'd have to put David in there” - he said. Rashford settled on England defender Rio Ferdinand at the back and picked an attacking lineup with Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney in front. The Manchester United no. 10 showed his humble side by excluding himself in the setup. “At the back, I'd have Rio Ferdinand. I'm all-out attack there. I'd have Paul Scholesy in front of Rio, Ryan Giggs on the right, Ronaldo on the left, and Rooney in front. I'm not putting myself in. Not yet” – he added. Marcus Rashford is a Rooney fan and uncovered that he savored the chance to play close by Manchester United's record goalscorer. "Rooney and Ronaldo were my two favorite players growing up, so to get an opportunity to play with Rooney was an unbelievable experience,” - said Rashford. Marcus Rashford has been an apparatus in the Manchester United team this season, showing up in 55 games in all rivalries. He is second just to Bruno Fernandes, who has played one more game than the Englishman this mission.

Marcus Rashford discloses his dream 6-a-side team

<p>Juventus are gearing up to face Serie A champions Inter Milan in the penultimate game of their season.</p>

<p>The Bianconeri cannot afford to drop any more points if they want to finish in the top four and qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Andrea Pirlo's men are currently 5th in the league, one point behind Napoli in 4th place. The Italian manager knows his future depends on Juventus' rivals dropping points in their next two games. However, he will have to make sure that the Bianconeri win both their games to avoid a disastrous end to the season.</p>

<p>With all that in mind, here is the latest&nbsp;news on Juventus.</p>

<p>Andrea Pirlo has expressed that he was satisfied with Juventus' presentation in the 3-1 win against Sassuolo in midweek and has called for business as usual when they take on Inter Milan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tending to the media in front of the Bianconeri's match against the Nerazzurri on Saturday, the Italian said:</p>

<p>“I liked the attitude on Wednesday, we needed to regroup after the match against Milan and we were compact. Having seen the performance on Wednesday suggests that we are sorry, we could have had more points by always remaining as focused as in - Reggio Emilia."</p>

<p>“At the end of the year, we will review the whole season, analyzing the mistakes to not commit them again. When you train, you have to measure your own idea of the game with the players, adapting to their characteristics and understanding how to put them on the pitch, in the positions where they can perform more" - he added</p>

<p>"Alex Sandro plays tomorrow because he’s disqualified for the Coppa Italia Final. For the others, we will see, we must recover energy. Federico Chiesa is getting better and better, I think he’ll be available tomorrow night. Merih Demiral is available, he could start the match."</p>

<p>Juventus are purportedly near agreeing to sign AC Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu this mid-year as Andrea Pirlo hopes to upgrade his midfield. The 27-year-old midfielder will turn into a free agent in June and presently can't seem to go to an understanding over an agreement expansion at Milan.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Juventus are gearing up to face Serie A champions Inter Milan in the penultimate game of their season. The Bianconeri cannot afford to drop any more points if they want to finish in the top four and qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

Juventus are gearing up to face Serie A champions Inter Milan in the penultimate game of their season. The Bianconeri cannot afford to drop any more points if they want to finish in the top four and qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Andrea Pirlo's men are currently 5th in the league, one point behind Napoli in 4th place. The Italian manager knows his future depends on Juventus' rivals dropping points in their next two games. However, he will have to make sure that the Bianconeri win both their games to avoid a disastrous end to the season. With all that in mind, here is the latest news on Juventus. Andrea Pirlo has expressed that he was satisfied with Juventus' presentation in the 3-1 win against Sassuolo in midweek and has called for business as usual when they take on Inter Milan. Tending to the media in front of the Bianconeri's match against the Nerazzurri on Saturday, the Italian said: “I liked the attitude on Wednesday, we needed to regroup after the match against Milan and we were compact. Having seen the performance on Wednesday suggests that we are sorry, we could have had more points by always remaining as focused as in - Reggio Emilia." “At the end of the year, we will review the whole season, analyzing the mistakes to not commit them again. When you train, you have to measure your own idea of the game with the players, adapting to their characteristics and understanding how to put them on the pitch, in the positions where they can perform more" - he added "Alex Sandro plays tomorrow because he’s disqualified for the Coppa Italia Final. For the others, we will see, we must recover energy. Federico Chiesa is getting better and better, I think he’ll be available tomorrow night. Merih Demiral is available, he could start the match." Juventus are purportedly near agreeing to sign AC Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu this mid-year as Andrea Pirlo hopes to upgrade his midfield. The 27-year-old midfielder will turn into a free agent in June and presently can't seem to go to an understanding over an agreement expansion at Milan.

Andrea Pirlo speaks ahead of the penultimate game against Inter Milan

<p class="MsoNormal">Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While Ronaldo currently leads the goalscoring charts in Serie A, Juventus could finish the season outside the top four, which will end their hopes of playing UEFA Champions League next season. However, Juventus as a club has still not pulled out of the controversial European Super League and the matter is expected to be dragged for weeks. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, Ronaldo also completed 100 goals for Juventus as he became the fastest player in Serie A to achieve the milestone and the only player to score a century of goals in three major European leagues. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting and won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ronaldo’s mother, an avid Sporting fan, cleared the air by saying she will try and convince Ronaldo to join the Portuguese club. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I'll talk to him (Cristiano) to bring him back," she said from her balcony as she spoke to Sporting fans that had taken to the streets to celebrate.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Next year, he will play in Alvalade (Sporting's stadium).".&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;<strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-could-be-difficult-rajasthan-royals-ben-stokes-on-playing-in-remainder-of-ipl-2021-384755" hreflang="en">'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ronaldo, 36, has one year left in his current contract at Juventus. However, the former Real Madrid forward is linked with a departure this summer with former club Manchester United being touted as one of the destinations.<o:p></o:p></p>


Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career.

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career. While Ronaldo currently leads the goalscoring charts in Serie A, Juventus could finish the season outside the top four, which will end their hopes of playing UEFA Champions League next season. However, Juventus as a club has still not pulled out of the controversial European Super League and the matter is expected to be dragged for weeks. Meanwhile, Ronaldo also completed 100 goals for Juventus as he became the fastest player in Serie A to achieve the milestone and the only player to score a century of goals in three major European leagues. Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting and won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team Ronaldo’s mother, an avid Sporting fan, cleared the air by saying she will try and convince Ronaldo to join the Portuguese club. "I'll talk to him (Cristiano) to bring him back," she said from her balcony as she spoke to Sporting fans that had taken to the streets to celebrate. "Next year, he will play in Alvalade (Sporting's stadium).". ALSO READ: 'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021 Ronaldo, 36, has one year left in his current contract at Juventus. However, the former Real Madrid forward is linked with a departure this summer with former club Manchester United being touted as one of the destinations.

Cristiano Ronaldo to sign for Sporting Lisbon? Juve star's mother fuels transfer speculation

<p>Juventus started the season looking to win a 10th straight Serie A title but instead find themselves in danger of missing out on a Champions League spot after a 3-0 home defeat by top-four rivals AC Milan on Sunday left them fifth with three games left.</p>

<p>Goals from Brahim Diaz, Ante Rebic, and Fikayo Tomori secured the win and sent Milan up to third on 72 points from 35 matches, leaving Juve a point behind fourth-placed Napoli and needing teams to drop points as they battle for a top-four finish.</p>

<p>Brahim curled home a stunning opener just before the break to give the visitors the halftime lead and they had a chance to extend the advantage in the 56th minute only for Franck Kessie's penalty to be saved by Wojciech Szczesny.</p>

<p>That miss did not prove costly, however, as substitute Rebic arrowed a fine strike into the net 12 minutes from time before defender Tomori, on loan from Chelsea, headed the third goal to seal a crucial win for Milan four minutes later.</p>

<p>"It was a very special night for us," Tomori told Sky Sport Italia. "This result and my goal made the night special.</p>

<p>"This victory gives us an advantage but nothing has been decided yet in the top-four race. Now we have to continue like this and stay focused for the next match against Torino."</p>

<p>Used to battling it out for the Scudetto in the past, Juve and Milan looked like two teams who were unsure of a top-four finish in a nervous first half.</p>

<p>Other than a header from Giorgio Chiellini, Juve struggled to create anything, with Cristiano Ronaldo unusually quiet.</p>

<p>Brahim lit up a poor first half after Szczesny did not get enough on a punch, with the Real Madrid loanee finding the top corner on his first start for Milan since March.</p>

<p>After the break, Juve did improve, with Ronaldo finally getting a shot away, but he could not find the target with his left foot, while Milan had to withdraw their top goalscorer this season, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, due to an injury.</p>

<p>Chiellini's clumsy handball gifted Milan the chance to extend their lead, after a lengthy VAR review. However, Szczesny came to the rescue - the Pole's third penalty save from the last four spot-kicks he has faced in Serie A against Milan.</p>

<p>It was Ibrahimovic's replacement Rebic who effectively ended Juve's hopes of getting something from the match before Tomori picked an opportune moment to score his first goal for Milan.</p>

<p>The final whistle was greeted with wild scenes of celebration from Milan staff and players, with their first away league win at Juve since March 2011 putting them in a strong position to return to the Champions League, potentially at their opponent's expense.</p>


Juventus started the season looking to win a 10th straight Serie A title but instead find themselves in danger of missing out on a Champions League spot after a 3-0 home defeat by top-four rivals AC Milan on Sunday left them fifth with three games left.

Juventus started the season looking to win a 10th straight Serie A title but instead find themselves in danger of missing out on a Champions League spot after a 3-0 home defeat by top-four rivals AC Milan on Sunday left them fifth with three games left. Goals from Brahim Diaz, Ante Rebic, and Fikayo Tomori secured the win and sent Milan up to third on 72 points from 35 matches, leaving Juve a point behind fourth-placed Napoli and needing teams to drop points as they battle for a top-four finish. Brahim curled home a stunning opener just before the break to give the visitors the halftime lead and they had a chance to extend the advantage in the 56th minute only for Franck Kessie's penalty to be saved by Wojciech Szczesny. That miss did not prove costly, however, as substitute Rebic arrowed a fine strike into the net 12 minutes from time before defender Tomori, on loan from Chelsea, headed the third goal to seal a crucial win for Milan four minutes later. "It was a very special night for us," Tomori told Sky Sport Italia. "This result and my goal made the night special. "This victory gives us an advantage but nothing has been decided yet in the top-four race. Now we have to continue like this and stay focused for the next match against Torino." Used to battling it out for the Scudetto in the past, Juve and Milan looked like two teams who were unsure of a top-four finish in a nervous first half. Other than a header from Giorgio Chiellini, Juve struggled to create anything, with Cristiano Ronaldo unusually quiet. Brahim lit up a poor first half after Szczesny did not get enough on a punch, with the Real Madrid loanee finding the top corner on his first start for Milan since March. After the break, Juve did improve, with Ronaldo finally getting a shot away, but he could not find the target with his left foot, while Milan had to withdraw their top goalscorer this season, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, due to an injury. Chiellini's clumsy handball gifted Milan the chance to extend their lead, after a lengthy VAR review. However, Szczesny came to the rescue - the Pole's third penalty save from the last four spot-kicks he has faced in Serie A against Milan. It was Ibrahimovic's replacement Rebic who effectively ended Juve's hopes of getting something from the match before Tomori picked an opportune moment to score his first goal for Milan. The final whistle was greeted with wild scenes of celebration from Milan staff and players, with their first away league win at Juve since March 2011 putting them in a strong position to return to the Champions League, potentially at their opponent's expense.

Juventus in danger of missing out on top four after loss to Milan

<p>Andrea Pirlo conceded Juventas missed Cristiano Ronaldo's "killer instinct" as the Italian champions fell to their first league defeat in two decades to Atalanta on Sunday leaving their participation in next season's Champions League at risk.</p>

<p>Leaders Inter Milan edged towards the Serie A title despite a 1-1 draw at Napoli, to pull 13 points ahead of Juventus who dropped to fourth place.</p>

<p>Christian Eriksen snatched a point for Inter whose 11-match winning streak ended but who hold a nine-point advantage on AC Milan as they target a first league title since 2010.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Milan earlier got back winning in the San Siro after two months 2-1 against Genoa.</p>

<p>Juve's nine-year reign as champions looks set to end with nine games left, and their European hopes are also at risk.</p>

<p>Substitute Ruslan Malinovskyi struck three minutes from time in Bergamo with a shot that took a deflection off Alex Sandro as Atalanta won 1-0 to move third.</p>

<p>Juventus were playing without injured Ronaldo, the top scorer in Serie A with 25 goals this campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We knew it would be tough against Atalanta," said Juve coach Andrea Pirlo.</p>

<p>"Ronaldo is our finisher, he adapts to these matches, because he's a champion.</p>

<p>"He's a penalty area killer. Today we had our chances, we didn't use them and we were punished by an episode."</p>

<p>Juve have failed to win any of the four matches they have played this season without 36-year-old Ronaldo.</p>

<p>But they held fourth spot two points ahead of Napoli whose six-match winning streak at home was stopped by Inter.</p>

<p>In Naples, top Inter scorer Romelu Lukaku rattled the woodwork either side of Napoli's opener, an own-goal following a blunder from visiting goalkeeper Samir Handanovic.</p>

<p>Lorenzo Insigne tried to connect with Victor Osimhen to finish off with Handanovic intercepting the ball only to lose control after colliding with Stefan de Vrij sending into his own net.</p>

<p>Eriksen pulled Inter level 10 minutes after the break rifling in from just outside the penalty area.</p>

<p>"I'm very happy and proud of this group of guys who have grown significantly in many ways," said Inter coach Antonio Conte.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On other occasions we would have lost the game, we would have fallen on that goal conceded. Instead the team reacted, they know what they are capable of and want to fight for something important."</p>

<h2>- Milan back winning in San Siro -</h2>

<p>In Milan, Gianluca Scamacca's 68th-minute own goal kept the seven-time European champions on course for a return to Champions League football next season.</p>

<p>Stefano Pioli's side had not won their last six games in the San Siro in all competitions and were playing without suspended forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic.</p>

<p>"We wasted a lot, we could have finished it earlier, but the important thing is the spirit to stay in the game until the very end," said Pioli, who has given up on catching Inter.</p>

<p>"Inter have taken too many points to think that we can still fight for the Scudetto (league title).</p>

<p>"Winning was important. We will have to face important teams, Atalanta, Juventus, Lazio, from here to the end they will all be difficult."</p>

<p>Ante Rebic put Milan ahead in the 13th minute with Rafael Leao, taking the place of Ibrahimovic, missing a chance for a second minutes later.</p>

<p>A Mattia Destro header against his former club pulled 14th-placed Genoa level eight minutes before the break.</p>

<p>Mario Mandzukic came off the bench for his first appearance in over two months just after the hour and had a role in the winning goal, which Scamacca guided past his own goalkeeper from a Hakan Calhanoglu corner.</p>

<p>In Rome, Lazio beat Benevento 5-4 in a match between coaching brothers Simone and Filippo Inzaghi to stay in the chase for the Champions League.</p>

<p>Ciro Immobile scored twice for the hosts and also missed a penalty as sixth-placed Lazio are four points behind Juventus having played a game less.</p>

<p>Roma's Champions League ambitions took a knock with a 3-1 defeat at Torino, who boosted their chances of top-flight survival.</p>

<p>Roma have taken four points from the last five games, and are stuck in seventh position, eight points off the Champions League berths.</p>


Andrea Pirlo conceded Juventas missed Cristiano Ronaldo's "killer instinct" as the Italian champions fell to their first league defeat in two decades to Atalanta on Sunday leaving their participation in next season's Champions League at risk.

Andrea Pirlo conceded Juventas missed Cristiano Ronaldo's "killer instinct" as the Italian champions fell to their first league defeat in two decades to Atalanta on Sunday leaving their participation in next season's Champions League at risk. Leaders Inter Milan edged towards the Serie A title despite a 1-1 draw at Napoli, to pull 13 points ahead of Juventus who dropped to fourth place. Christian Eriksen snatched a point for Inter whose 11-match winning streak ended but who hold a nine-point advantage on AC Milan as they target a first league title since 2010. Milan earlier got back winning in the San Siro after two months 2-1 against Genoa. Juve's nine-year reign as champions looks set to end with nine games left, and their European hopes are also at risk. Substitute Ruslan Malinovskyi struck three minutes from time in Bergamo with a shot that took a deflection off Alex Sandro as Atalanta won 1-0 to move third. Juventus were playing without injured Ronaldo, the top scorer in Serie A with 25 goals this campaign. "We knew it would be tough against Atalanta," said Juve coach Andrea Pirlo. "Ronaldo is our finisher, he adapts to these matches, because he's a champion. "He's a penalty area killer. Today we had our chances, we didn't use them and we were punished by an episode." Juve have failed to win any of the four matches they have played this season without 36-year-old Ronaldo. But they held fourth spot two points ahead of Napoli whose six-match winning streak at home was stopped by Inter. In Naples, top Inter scorer Romelu Lukaku rattled the woodwork either side of Napoli's opener, an own-goal following a blunder from visiting goalkeeper Samir Handanovic. Lorenzo Insigne tried to connect with Victor Osimhen to finish off with Handanovic intercepting the ball only to lose control after colliding with Stefan de Vrij sending into his own net. Eriksen pulled Inter level 10 minutes after the break rifling in from just outside the penalty area. "I'm very happy and proud of this group of guys who have grown significantly in many ways," said Inter coach Antonio Conte. "On other occasions we would have lost the game, we would have fallen on that goal conceded. Instead the team reacted, they know what they are capable of and want to fight for something important." - Milan back winning in San Siro - In Milan, Gianluca Scamacca's 68th-minute own goal kept the seven-time European champions on course for a return to Champions League football next season. Stefano Pioli's side had not won their last six games in the San Siro in all competitions and were playing without suspended forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic. "We wasted a lot, we could have finished it earlier, but the important thing is the spirit to stay in the game until the very end," said Pioli, who has given up on catching Inter. "Inter have taken too many points to think that we can still fight for the Scudetto (league title). "Winning was important. We will have to face important teams, Atalanta, Juventus, Lazio, from here to the end they will all be difficult." Ante Rebic put Milan ahead in the 13th minute with Rafael Leao, taking the place of Ibrahimovic, missing a chance for a second minutes later. A Mattia Destro header against his former club pulled 14th-placed Genoa level eight minutes before the break. Mario Mandzukic came off the bench for his first appearance in over two months just after the hour and had a role in the winning goal, which Scamacca guided past his own goalkeeper from a Hakan Calhanoglu corner. In Rome, Lazio beat Benevento 5-4 in a match between coaching brothers Simone and Filippo Inzaghi to stay in the chase for the Champions League. Ciro Immobile scored twice for the hosts and also missed a penalty as sixth-placed Lazio are four points behind Juventus having played a game less. Roma's Champions League ambitions took a knock with a 3-1 defeat at Torino, who boosted their chances of top-flight survival. Roma have taken four points from the last five games, and are stuck in seventh position, eight points off the Champions League berths.

Juve's Champions League at risk, Inter edge towards title despite Napoli draw

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo was left fuming after Portugal were controversially denied a late winner at the weekend in the World Cup qualifier against Serbia. The Portuguese skipper received a yellow card for his protests and at the final whistle, he stormed off the pitch and threw his captain's armband to the ground.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-set-to-approve-new-champions-league-format-at-april-meeting-374455" hreflang="en">UEFA set to approve new Champions League format at April meeting</a></p>

<p>A steward at the stadium picked it up and immediately contacted a regional sports channel with the idea of auctioning it for charity. He told AFP that he suggested raising funds required to treat a six-month-old baby, Gavrilo Djurdjevic, who is suffering from a rare disease.</p>

<p>"He (Ronaldo) threw the armband three metres away from me, and the idea immediately occurred to me that this (sale) could be a good opportunity," the man told AFP by phone.</p>

<p>"I realised we had some attention and could do something nice for Gavrilo", he added.</p>

<p>Sportklub, the sports channel, verified the arm band's authenticity by checking post-match photos and videos. The channel then teamed up with a charity organisation and put Ronaldo's armband up for a bidding contest on auctioning website Limundo.com.</p>

<p>"I hope we will be able to reach Ronaldo himself... so we could help Gavrilo as much as we can," Branislav Jocic, social media manager of Sportklub told AFP.</p>

<p>The six-month-old infant is suffering from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which affects about one in 10,000 births, and results in death or the need for permanent ventilation by the age of two in 90 per cent of cases. However, the child's looking at one-time gene treatment Zolgensma, which is also known as the "world's most expensive drug". The treatment costs over two million euros ($2.35 million).</p>

<p>Within hours of being put on auction, on Tuesday, the armband reached the price of 360,000 dinars (around 3,000 euros) -- donations can also be made direct to the charity.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from AFP)</em></p>


Cristiano Ronaldo was left fuming after Portugal were controversially denied a late winner at the weekend in the World Cup qualifier against Serbia. The Portuguese skipper received a yellow card for his protests and at the final whistle, he stormed off the pitch and threw his captain's armband to the ground.

Cristiano Ronaldo was left fuming after Portugal were controversially denied a late winner at the weekend in the World Cup qualifier against Serbia. The Portuguese skipper received a yellow card for his protests and at the final whistle, he stormed off the pitch and threw his captain's armband to the ground. ALSO READ: UEFA set to approve new Champions League format at April meeting A steward at the stadium picked it up and immediately contacted a regional sports channel with the idea of auctioning it for charity. He told AFP that he suggested raising funds required to treat a six-month-old baby, Gavrilo Djurdjevic, who is suffering from a rare disease. "He (Ronaldo) threw the armband three metres away from me, and the idea immediately occurred to me that this (sale) could be a good opportunity," the man told AFP by phone. "I realised we had some attention and could do something nice for Gavrilo", he added. Sportklub, the sports channel, verified the arm band's authenticity by checking post-match photos and videos. The channel then teamed up with a charity organisation and put Ronaldo's armband up for a bidding contest on auctioning website Limundo.com. "I hope we will be able to reach Ronaldo himself... so we could help Gavrilo as much as we can," Branislav Jocic, social media manager of Sportklub told AFP. The six-month-old infant is suffering from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which affects about one in 10,000 births, and results in death or the need for permanent ventilation by the age of two in 90 per cent of cases. However, the child's looking at one-time gene treatment Zolgensma, which is also known as the "world's most expensive drug". The treatment costs over two million euros ($2.35 million). Within hours of being put on auction, on Tuesday, the armband reached the price of 360,000 dinars (around 3,000 euros) -- donations can also be made direct to the charity. (Inputs from AFP)

Cristiano Ronaldo's anger turns into blessing as his 'thrown' armband gets auctioned for charity

<p>UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.</p>

<p>"In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement.</p>

<p>Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season.</p>

<p>"VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added.</p>

<p>It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT).</p>

<p>Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear.</p>

<p>The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time.</p>

<p>"I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram.</p>

<p>Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team.</p>

<p>Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia.</p>

<p>"How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE.</p>

<p>VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League.</p>

<p>FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced.</p>

<p>European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.</p>


UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials. "In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement. Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season. "VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added. It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT). Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear. The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time. "I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram. Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team. Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia. "How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE. VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League. FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced. European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Pandemic blamed for lack of VAR in World Cup qualifiers after Ronaldo fury

<p>&nbsp;Portugal have themselves to blame for squandering a two-goal lead against Serbia in their World Cup qualifier before a livid Cristiano Ronaldo was denied a clear winner in stoppage time, forward Diogo Jota said.</p>

<p>Saturday's Group A match in Belgrade ended in a 2-2 draw after Ronaldo's stoppage-time effort crossed the line before it was cleared by Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic, who then blocked a goal-bound follow up from Bernardo Silva.</p>

<p>A furious Ronaldo walked off the pitch and threw the captain's armband on to the turf seconds before Dutch referee Danny Makkelie blew full time, having been booked for dissent after the officials failed to award the goal. There was no VAR in place to review the decision.</p>

<p>"What happened can't happen at this level because we switched off and let Serbia draw level 15 minutes into the second half," said Liverpool forward Jota, whose brace had given the Portuguese a 2-0 lead in the first half.</p>

<p>"It looked like the hard part was done after a very good first half but Serbia changed their formation at halftime, scored quickly and built on from there.</p>

<p>"We failed to kill the game off and we can't let that happen again in the future."</p>

<p>Coach Fernando Santos added:</p>

<p>"I warned my players at halftime Serbia would make changes by switching to one up front in order to boost the midfield and I have no explanation why we let them back into the game.</p>

<p>"But we regained control after Serbia equalised and in the end we had a goal that didn't count."</p>

<p>Serbia coach Dragan Stojkovic praised his team for a spirited fightback.</p>

<p>"The word 'surrender' is not part of our vocabulary and the result as well as the performance shows that we are on the right track," he said. "Don't forget we were up against the European champions but I still hoped we could win the match."</p>

<p>The result left Serbia top of the group on four points from two games ahead of Portugal on goals scored, with Luxemburg behind them on three points after a shock 1-0 win in Ireland.</p>

<p>Serbia next visit Azerbaijan on Tuesday while Portugal are away to Luxembourg.</p>


Portugal have themselves to blame for squandering a two-goal lead against Serbia in their World Cup qualifier before a livid Cristiano Ronaldo was denied a clear winner in stoppage time, forward Diogo Jota said.

Portugal have themselves to blame for squandering a two-goal lead against Serbia in their World Cup qualifier before a livid Cristiano Ronaldo was denied a clear winner in stoppage time, forward Diogo Jota said. Saturday's Group A match in Belgrade ended in a 2-2 draw after Ronaldo's stoppage-time effort crossed the line before it was cleared by Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic, who then blocked a goal-bound follow up from Bernardo Silva. A furious Ronaldo walked off the pitch and threw the captain's armband on to the turf seconds before Dutch referee Danny Makkelie blew full time, having been booked for dissent after the officials failed to award the goal. There was no VAR in place to review the decision. "What happened can't happen at this level because we switched off and let Serbia draw level 15 minutes into the second half," said Liverpool forward Jota, whose brace had given the Portuguese a 2-0 lead in the first half. "It looked like the hard part was done after a very good first half but Serbia changed their formation at halftime, scored quickly and built on from there. "We failed to kill the game off and we can't let that happen again in the future." Coach Fernando Santos added: "I warned my players at halftime Serbia would make changes by switching to one up front in order to boost the midfield and I have no explanation why we let them back into the game. "But we regained control after Serbia equalised and in the end we had a goal that didn't count." Serbia coach Dragan Stojkovic praised his team for a spirited fightback. "The word 'surrender' is not part of our vocabulary and the result as well as the performance shows that we are on the right track," he said. "Don't forget we were up against the European champions but I still hoped we could win the match." The result left Serbia top of the group on four points from two games ahead of Portugal on goals scored, with Luxemburg behind them on three points after a shock 1-0 win in Ireland. Serbia next visit Azerbaijan on Tuesday while Portugal are away to Luxembourg.

We switched off, Jota says after Ronaldo denied winner

<p>Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo's morale has been unaffected by recent disappointments with Juventus.</p>

<p>European champions Portugal play their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday, due to coronavirus travel restrictions.</p>

<p>Ronaldo has been under fire in Italy after Juve's Champions League last-16 exit to Porto and the weekend defeat by Benevento which left them 10 points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan.</p>

<p>Describing the 36-year-old Ronaldo as a "very good friend", Santos said he found the player to be in high spirits.</p>

<p>"We've always been close to each other, very good friends, we don't really have a coach-player relationship," the 66-year-old Santos told a press conference.</p>

<p>"(Ronaldo) certainly represents great quality, he always shows great happiness and joy when he's with the team."</p>

<p>Ronaldo is bidding to break Ali Daei's all-time men's international goalscoring record, with the former Real Madrid attacker only seven goals short of the Iranian's mark of 109.</p>

<p>"He's an important player, probably the best in the world," added Santos. "I don't think he has any problem in terms of mentality at the moment."</p>

<p>Portugal have qualified for the World Cup finals seven times, reaching the semi-finals in 1966 and 2006.</p>

<p>Alongside Ronaldo, they boast an array of attacking talent, including Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes, Atletico Madrid youngster Joao Felix and Liverpool's Diogo Jota.</p>

<p>And after winning their first major title at Euro 2016, Santos believes the World Cup "is not really a dream, but something that can definitely come true".</p>

<p>"We know Ronaldo always wants to conquer new trophies, but all the players want to win the World Cup," he said.</p>

<p>"We can fight to become the world champions."</p>

<p>Despite fifth-ranked Portugal being favourites against Azerbaijan, ranked 108th, Santos warned: "We mustn't underestimate anyone. We know Azerbaijan can be quite dangerous on the counter-attack."</p>

<p>Although defender Pepe is out after suffering an injury while playing for club side Porto, Ruben Dias believes the veteran's absence "will change nothing".</p>

<p>"We have a very clear playing idea. We can't depend on just one single player. We have to adapt, there will be other players," said the Manchester City defender.</p>

<p>"We want Portugal to be recognised as a truly important team.</p>

<p>"What we're doing here is fighting for the World Cup.</p>

<p>"We have great ambitions, we want to win. Cristiano is obviously fundamental for the national team.</p>

<p>"We're trying to integrate the new players with Cristiano to create a new team."</p>

<p>The European champions also travel to Serbia on Saturday and Luxembourg three days later.</p>


Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo's morale has been unaffected by recent disappointments with Juventus. European champions Portugal play their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday, due to coronavirus travel restrictions.

Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo's morale has been unaffected by recent disappointments with Juventus. European champions Portugal play their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday, due to coronavirus travel restrictions. Ronaldo has been under fire in Italy after Juve's Champions League last-16 exit to Porto and the weekend defeat by Benevento which left them 10 points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan. Describing the 36-year-old Ronaldo as a "very good friend", Santos said he found the player to be in high spirits. "We've always been close to each other, very good friends, we don't really have a coach-player relationship," the 66-year-old Santos told a press conference. "(Ronaldo) certainly represents great quality, he always shows great happiness and joy when he's with the team." Ronaldo is bidding to break Ali Daei's all-time men's international goalscoring record, with the former Real Madrid attacker only seven goals short of the Iranian's mark of 109. "He's an important player, probably the best in the world," added Santos. "I don't think he has any problem in terms of mentality at the moment." Portugal have qualified for the World Cup finals seven times, reaching the semi-finals in 1966 and 2006. Alongside Ronaldo, they boast an array of attacking talent, including Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes, Atletico Madrid youngster Joao Felix and Liverpool's Diogo Jota. And after winning their first major title at Euro 2016, Santos believes the World Cup "is not really a dream, but something that can definitely come true". "We know Ronaldo always wants to conquer new trophies, but all the players want to win the World Cup," he said. "We can fight to become the world champions." Despite fifth-ranked Portugal being favourites against Azerbaijan, ranked 108th, Santos warned: "We mustn't underestimate anyone. We know Azerbaijan can be quite dangerous on the counter-attack." Although defender Pepe is out after suffering an injury while playing for club side Porto, Ruben Dias believes the veteran's absence "will change nothing". "We have a very clear playing idea. We can't depend on just one single player. We have to adapt, there will be other players," said the Manchester City defender. "We want Portugal to be recognised as a truly important team. "What we're doing here is fighting for the World Cup. "We have great ambitions, we want to win. Cristiano is obviously fundamental for the national team. "We're trying to integrate the new players with Cristiano to create a new team." The European champions also travel to Serbia on Saturday and Luxembourg three days later.

Ronaldo's spirits high despite Juve setbacks, says Portugal's Santos

<p>Juventus' hopes of winning a 10th consecutive Serie A title took another blow on Sunday with a 1-0 home loss to lowly Benevento as AC Milan closed the gap on leaders Inter Milan with a hard-fought 3-2 win at Fiorentina.</p>

<p>Adolfo Gaich scored the only goal in the 69th minute at Juve's Allianz Stadium following a bad pass across his own penalty area by midfielder Arthur.</p>

<p>Andrea Pirlo's side stay third, 10 points behind Inter whose match against Sassuolo was postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak at the league leaders.</p>

<p>Second-placed Milan are four points ahead of the reigning champions after they recovered from their Europa League exit to Manchester United by cutting the deficit to Inter to six points with a 3-2 win over Fiorentina.</p>

<p>For Juve, who have 11 games left to play this season, it was another blow after being dumped out of the Champions League at the last 16 stage by Porto earlier this month.</p>

<p>"We performed poorly, in every aspect," said Pirlo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have to continue to believe in the title. The objective does not change, it's the mindset which must."</p>

<p>Serie A top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo, who has netted 23 times in the league this season, drew a blank in Turin a week after reaching 770 goals to beat Pele's all-time mark of 767, with Benevento goalkeeper Lorenzo Montipo pulling off a string of fine saves.</p>

<h2>- Zlatan hails 'important' win -</h2>

<p>Benevento broke the deadlock following Arthur's horrendous pass across the face of goal towards Danilo, which allowed Gaich to pounce and score his second goal in five games since arriving on loan from CSKA Moscow.</p>

<p>Montipo denied Ronaldo twice late on as Juve pushed for a leveller, first from close range with 10 minutes to go and again in the final minute, with Danilo sending the subsequent rebound over the bar.</p>

<p>Benevento now sit seven points away from the drop zone in 16th.</p>

<p>In Florence, Zlatan Ibrahimovic returned to the starting line-up for Milan for the first time in over three weeks and scored after nine minutes following Simon Kjaer's ball over the top.</p>

<p>But Milan needed Brahim Diaz's 57th-minute strike and a Hakan Calhanoglu winner with quarter of an hour to go to snatch victory.</p>

<p>A curling Erick Pulgar free-kick had pulled Fiorentina level with Franck Ribery then putting the hosts ahead six minutes after the break.</p>

<p>"It was very important to win like this after the defeat against Manchester United," said Ibrahimovic, who at 39 became the oldest player to score 15 goals in a single Serie A season.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- Mertens century -</h2>

<p>Atalanta bounced back after their Champions League exit to Real Madrid with a 2-0 win at Hellas Verona to consolidate fourth place, equal on points with Juventus.</p>

<p>Ruslan Malinovskyi scored the first from the penalty spot after a Federico Dimarco handball in the 33rd minute in Verona.</p>

<p>Duvan Zapata added a second before the break, after an earlier effort hit the post, the Colombian sweeping the ball past Marco Silvestri into an empty net, as Verona fell to a third successive defeat to stay ninth.</p>

<p>Atalanta are two points ahead of Napoli who beat Champions League rivals Roma 2-0 at the Stadio Olimpico thanks to a Dries Mertens brace.</p>

<p>Mertens curled in the opener from a free-kick in the 27th minute and nodded in a Matteo Politano cross seven minutes later to bring his tally to 100 Serie A goals since joining Napoli in 2013.</p>

<p>Roma are the only Italian side left in Europe and showed signs of fatigue after their Europa League trip to Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday.</p>

<p>"Perhaps we don't have the mentality required to compete against these sort of teams," said Roma coach Paulo Fonseca, whose side have struggled for results against Serie A's top teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the first half the team looked to be without courage ... When we are afraid of losing, or afraid of playing, it all becomes a lot harder."</p>

<p>Lazio recovered from their Champions League elimination to Bayern Munich with a 1-0 win at Udinese thanks to an Adam Marusic goal.</p>

<p>Simone Inzaghi's side are seventh but now just one point behind their city rivals with a game in hand.</p>


Juventus' hopes of winning a 10th consecutive Serie A title took another blow on Sunday with a 1-0 home loss to lowly Benevento as AC Milan closed the gap on leaders Inter Milan with a hard-fought 3-2 win at Fiorentina.

Juventus' hopes of winning a 10th consecutive Serie A title took another blow on Sunday with a 1-0 home loss to lowly Benevento as AC Milan closed the gap on leaders Inter Milan with a hard-fought 3-2 win at Fiorentina. Adolfo Gaich scored the only goal in the 69th minute at Juve's Allianz Stadium following a bad pass across his own penalty area by midfielder Arthur. Andrea Pirlo's side stay third, 10 points behind Inter whose match against Sassuolo was postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak at the league leaders. Second-placed Milan are four points ahead of the reigning champions after they recovered from their Europa League exit to Manchester United by cutting the deficit to Inter to six points with a 3-2 win over Fiorentina. For Juve, who have 11 games left to play this season, it was another blow after being dumped out of the Champions League at the last 16 stage by Porto earlier this month. "We performed poorly, in every aspect," said Pirlo. "We have to continue to believe in the title. The objective does not change, it's the mindset which must." Serie A top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo, who has netted 23 times in the league this season, drew a blank in Turin a week after reaching 770 goals to beat Pele's all-time mark of 767, with Benevento goalkeeper Lorenzo Montipo pulling off a string of fine saves. - Zlatan hails 'important' win - Benevento broke the deadlock following Arthur's horrendous pass across the face of goal towards Danilo, which allowed Gaich to pounce and score his second goal in five games since arriving on loan from CSKA Moscow. Montipo denied Ronaldo twice late on as Juve pushed for a leveller, first from close range with 10 minutes to go and again in the final minute, with Danilo sending the subsequent rebound over the bar. Benevento now sit seven points away from the drop zone in 16th. In Florence, Zlatan Ibrahimovic returned to the starting line-up for Milan for the first time in over three weeks and scored after nine minutes following Simon Kjaer's ball over the top. But Milan needed Brahim Diaz's 57th-minute strike and a Hakan Calhanoglu winner with quarter of an hour to go to snatch victory. A curling Erick Pulgar free-kick had pulled Fiorentina level with Franck Ribery then putting the hosts ahead six minutes after the break. "It was very important to win like this after the defeat against Manchester United," said Ibrahimovic, who at 39 became the oldest player to score 15 goals in a single Serie A season. - Mertens century - Atalanta bounced back after their Champions League exit to Real Madrid with a 2-0 win at Hellas Verona to consolidate fourth place, equal on points with Juventus. Ruslan Malinovskyi scored the first from the penalty spot after a Federico Dimarco handball in the 33rd minute in Verona. Duvan Zapata added a second before the break, after an earlier effort hit the post, the Colombian sweeping the ball past Marco Silvestri into an empty net, as Verona fell to a third successive defeat to stay ninth. Atalanta are two points ahead of Napoli who beat Champions League rivals Roma 2-0 at the Stadio Olimpico thanks to a Dries Mertens brace. Mertens curled in the opener from a free-kick in the 27th minute and nodded in a Matteo Politano cross seven minutes later to bring his tally to 100 Serie A goals since joining Napoli in 2013. Roma are the only Italian side left in Europe and showed signs of fatigue after their Europa League trip to Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday. "Perhaps we don't have the mentality required to compete against these sort of teams," said Roma coach Paulo Fonseca, whose side have struggled for results against Serie A's top teams. "In the first half the team looked to be without courage ... When we are afraid of losing, or afraid of playing, it all becomes a lot harder." Lazio recovered from their Champions League elimination to Bayern Munich with a 1-0 win at Udinese thanks to an Adam Marusic goal. Simone Inzaghi's side are seventh but now just one point behind their city rivals with a game in hand.

Juve's title hopes rocked as Milan keep pressure on Inter

<p>Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has been named Serie A Player of the Year for his performance in the 2019-2020 season at the Gran Gala del Calcio on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-to-face-granada-in-europa-league-quarter-finals-371778" hreflang="en">Man Utd to face Granada in Europa League quarter-finals</a></p>

<p>The Portuguese legend won the award given by the Italian Footballers' Association, after helping Juventus to a ninth successive Serie A title last season</p>

<p>"It was a strange year, a year that no one would have wanted, but on a personal and team level, it was positive, because we won the championship," Ronaldo told Sky Sport Italia.</p>

<p>"At the beginning, it was difficult to play in empty stadiums, but our goal was to win the championship and we did it. We missed the Champions League but that's how football is."</p>

<p>His goal against Sampdoria in December 2019 was also voted Goal of the Season.</p>

<p>"It was my best goal, I’m very sure of it," Ronaldo added. "I want to thank my teammates because without them it wouldn’t have been possible to receive this prize.</p>

<p>"Thanks to the players who voted for me, I feel very lucky. I think the trust, the endurance and passion are the secrets to continuing to enjoy football.</p>

<p>"I feel motivated and this must be the case, as otherwise, it's not possible to play at this level when you are 35, 36, 37 or 40."</p>

<p>Coach of the Year award was won by Atlanta's Gian Piero Gasperini.&nbsp;</p>


Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has been named Serie A Player of the Year for his performance in the 2019-2020 season at the Gran Gala del Calcio on Friday. ALSO READ: Man Utd to face Granada in Europa League quarter-finals The Portuguese legend won the award given by the Italian Footballers' Association, after helping Juventus to a ninth successive Serie A title last season "It was a strange year, a year that no one would have wanted, but on a personal and team level, it was positive, because we won the championship," Ronaldo told Sky Sport Italia.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo has been named Serie A Player of the Year for his performance in the 2019-2020 season at the Gran Gala del Calcio on Friday. ALSO READ: Man Utd to face Granada in Europa League quarter-finals The Portuguese legend won the award given by the Italian Footballers' Association, after helping Juventus to a ninth successive Serie A title last season "It was a strange year, a year that no one would have wanted, but on a personal and team level, it was positive, because we won the championship," Ronaldo told Sky Sport Italia. "At the beginning, it was difficult to play in empty stadiums, but our goal was to win the championship and we did it. We missed the Champions League but that's how football is." His goal against Sampdoria in December 2019 was also voted Goal of the Season. "It was my best goal, I’m very sure of it," Ronaldo added. "I want to thank my teammates because without them it wouldn’t have been possible to receive this prize. "Thanks to the players who voted for me, I feel very lucky. I think the trust, the endurance and passion are the secrets to continuing to enjoy football. "I feel motivated and this must be the case, as otherwise, it's not possible to play at this level when you are 35, 36, 37 or 40." Coach of the Year award was won by Atlanta's Gian Piero Gasperini.

Juve star Cristiano Ronaldo named Serie A's Player of the Year

<p>Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker.</p>

<p>Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible."</p>

<p>"We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club."</p>

<p>Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future."</p>

<p>Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros.</p>

<p>The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!"</p>

<p>Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.</p>


Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible." "We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club." Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future." Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros. The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!" Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zidane says Ronaldo return to Real Madrid 'possible'

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{222}" paraid="1100566251" >Brazilian legend Pele on Sunday congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo on “breaking his record" of goals scored in official matches after the Portuguese stalwart netted a hat-trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to complete a whopping 770 goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1594ea42-81ce-4305-bd78-0c212f3d8bed}{244}" paraid="1251801025" >Ronaldo, took to the photo-blogging platform Instagram, as he said that he could now claim the record while adding he could have never dreamed of breaking Pele's record. Ronaldo had matched Pele's record of 767 goals on March 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0e3abfc0-8ec2-427b-b5f1-f81663ee7b86}{188}" paraid="1840530280" >"I'm filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that puts me on top of the World's goalscoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child from Madeira," Ronaldo wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaUgilgzKd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaUgilgzKd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaUgilgzKd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaUgilgzKd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram that he admires Ronaldo a lot and love watching him play. The Brazilian great added that his only regret is not being able to give Ronaldo a hug today.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0e3abfc0-8ec2-427b-b5f1-f81663ee7b86}{199}" paraid="15250372" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-hits-back-with-hat-trick-inter-extend-lead-370556" hreflang="en">Ronaldo hits back with hat-trick, Inter extend lead</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{51}" paraid="1474119654" >Brazilian great Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram to his 5.8 million followers: "Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{60}" paraid="953346589" >"I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{69}" paraid="1237677037" >"My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{78}" paraid="1545818984" >"Cristiano life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having!"&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaRGqRlgBf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaRGqRlgBf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaRGqRlgBf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMaRGqRlgBf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Pelé (@pele)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Pele, who is the only player in football history to win three World Cups – has claimed to have scored a total of 1,283 goals including the ones in unofficial matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{006729b8-483b-4b6d-a376-ae9c03e8d832}{159}" paraid="695187293" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-beat-10-man-tottenham-man-utd-hold-off-west-ham-370553" hreflang="en">Arsenal beat 10-man Tottenham, Man Utd hold off West Ham</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{973a9afb-bcaf-4e64-8d2d-1124376f4a7d}{92}" paraid="478824863" >Whereas, Ronaldo's tally&nbsp;includes&nbsp;668 for his club sides&nbsp;- five with Sporting Lisbon, 118 for Manchester United, 450 for Real Madrid and 95 for Juventus. He has also scored 120 for Portugal.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0129c31d-1ec0-4097-a43b-32de01edee65}{29}" paraid="1879865700" >However, social media has put Czech legend Josef Bican on 805 goals, ahead of both Ronaldo and Pele.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2a0af23d-9a90-4523-b95d-ccfbd8d47e46}{242}" paraid="113076049" >Former Brazilian striker Romario also claims to have scored 1,000 career goals including unofficial matches. Other sources attribute 772 to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{1}" paraid="523811361" >(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;</p>


Brazilian legend Pele on Sunday congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo on “breaking his record" of goals scored in official matches after the Portuguese stalwart netted a hat-trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to complete a whopping 770 goals.

Brazilian legend Pele on Sunday congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo on “breaking his record" of goals scored in official matches after the Portuguese stalwart netted a hat-trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to complete a whopping 770 goals. Ronaldo, took to the photo-blogging platform Instagram, as he said that he could now claim the record while adding he could have never dreamed of breaking Pele's record. Ronaldo had matched Pele's record of 767 goals on March 2. "I'm filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that puts me on top of the World's goalscoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child from Madeira," Ronaldo wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) × Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram that he admires Ronaldo a lot and love watching him play. The Brazilian great added that his only regret is not being able to give Ronaldo a hug today. ALSO READ: Ronaldo hits back with hat-trick, Inter extend lead Brazilian great Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram to his 5.8 million followers: "Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches. "I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone. "My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today." "Cristiano life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pelé (@pele) × Pele, who is the only player in football history to win three World Cups – has claimed to have scored a total of 1,283 goals including the ones in unofficial matches. ALSO READ: Arsenal beat 10-man Tottenham, Man Utd hold off West Ham Whereas, Ronaldo's tally includes 668 for his club sides - five with Sporting Lisbon, 118 for Manchester United, 450 for Real Madrid and 95 for Juventus. He has also scored 120 for Portugal. However, social media has put Czech legend Josef Bican on 805 goals, ahead of both Ronaldo and Pele. Former Brazilian striker Romario also claims to have scored 1,000 career goals including unofficial matches. Other sources attribute 772 to him. (With AFP inputs)

'I admire you a lot': Pele congratulates Cristiano Ronaldo for breaking his goal record

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo hit back at his critics with a quick-fire hat-trick as Juventus brushed aside Cagliari 3-1 on Sunday, five days after their Champions League elimination, while Inter Milan moved nine points clear at the Serie A summit.</p>

<p>Portuguese star Ronaldo bore the brunt of the criticism for Juve's latest European flop after failing to score in either leg of the last-16 defeat by Porto, while also being partly at fault for what proved to be the winning goal.</p>

<p>But the 36-year-old scored a header after less than nine minutes at the Sardegna Arena, added a second from the penalty spot, and completed a 'perfect' treble on 32 minutes with a fine left-footed strike.</p>

<p>Defending champions Juventus are 10 points behind Inter Milan, who beat Torino 2-1 earlier Sunday, but with a game in hand.</p>

<p>Andrea Pirlo's side pulled just one point behind second-placed AC Milan, who host Napoli later Sunday, as they try to keep their push for a 10th consecutive Scudetto alive.</p>

<p>Ronaldo broke the deadlock early on, rising high to nod in a Juan Cuadrado corner.</p>

<p>But he could have been sent off after a quarter of an hour, receiving only a yellow card for dangerous play as his boot struck Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno in the face while attempting to meet a Federico Chiesa cross.</p>

<p>Ronaldo's second came from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after being brought down by Cragno.</p>

<p>He completed the 57th treble of his career when he collected Chiesa's pass and blasted a left-footed strike into the Cagliari net, at the only stadium in the Italian top flight where he had not previously scored.</p>

<p>Ronaldo is the leading scorer in Serie A with 23 goals this season, ahead of Inter's Romelu Lukaku, who has 19.</p>

<p>It was his third hat-trick for Juventus since joining in 2018, after also putting three past Cagliari in the league last season and in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid in 2019.</p>

<p>Before kick-off, Juventus chief football officer Fabio Paratici dismissed talk about Ronaldo's future.</p>

<p>"It makes me laugh. I would never have imagined discussing the value of Cristiano Ronaldo," said Paratici.</p>

<p>"It's a privilege to have him with us, he's part of our future."</p>

<p>Cagliari, two points above the relegation zone, pulled a goal back through Giovanni Simeone in the 61st minute.</p>

<h2>- Martinez pulls Inter clear -</h2>

<p>Lautaro Martinez scored a brilliant 85th-minute winner for Inter in a tight game against 18th-placed Torino.</p>

<p>Antonio Conte's Inter once again needed their strike duo of Lukaku and Martinez to find a way to win in Turin.</p>

<p>Christian Eriksen came off the bench on 56 minutes and had an immediate impact, playing a part in the move which resulted in Torino defender Armando Izzo fouling Martinez in the penalty area.</p>

<p>Lukaku fired home the resulting spot-kick in the 62nd minute.</p>

<p>Inter looked to be wobbling when Antonio Sanabria pulled Torino level eight minutes later, finishing off goalmouth scramble.</p>

<p>But Martinez snatched the victory by getting his head to an Alexis Sanchez cross for his 14th league goal this term.</p>

<p>Inter stretched their winning run to eight matches to move further ahead of AC Milan.</p>

<p>"Victories like these are crucial," said Inter assistant coach Cristian Stellini, with Antonio Conte serving a touchline ban.</p>

<p>"The three points were also vital for Torino who gave little away."</p>

<p>Injury-hit Roma dropped to fifth, two points behind Atalanta and the Champions League berths after falling 2-0 at 19th-placed Parma who earned their first win since November 30.</p>

<p>Valentin Mihaila opened the scoring on nine minutes following a cross from fellow Romanian Dennis Man.</p>

<p>Hernani added a second from the spot in the second half to secure a valuable win which moves Parma a point behind Torino, who have played two games fewer because of a coronavirus outbreak, and three from safety.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo hit back at his critics with a quick-fire hat-trick as Juventus brushed aside Cagliari 3-1 on Sunday, five days after their Champions League elimination, while Inter Milan moved nine points clear at the Serie A summit.

Cristiano Ronaldo hit back at his critics with a quick-fire hat-trick as Juventus brushed aside Cagliari 3-1 on Sunday, five days after their Champions League elimination, while Inter Milan moved nine points clear at the Serie A summit. Portuguese star Ronaldo bore the brunt of the criticism for Juve's latest European flop after failing to score in either leg of the last-16 defeat by Porto, while also being partly at fault for what proved to be the winning goal. But the 36-year-old scored a header after less than nine minutes at the Sardegna Arena, added a second from the penalty spot, and completed a 'perfect' treble on 32 minutes with a fine left-footed strike. Defending champions Juventus are 10 points behind Inter Milan, who beat Torino 2-1 earlier Sunday, but with a game in hand. Andrea Pirlo's side pulled just one point behind second-placed AC Milan, who host Napoli later Sunday, as they try to keep their push for a 10th consecutive Scudetto alive. Ronaldo broke the deadlock early on, rising high to nod in a Juan Cuadrado corner. But he could have been sent off after a quarter of an hour, receiving only a yellow card for dangerous play as his boot struck Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno in the face while attempting to meet a Federico Chiesa cross. Ronaldo's second came from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after being brought down by Cragno. He completed the 57th treble of his career when he collected Chiesa's pass and blasted a left-footed strike into the Cagliari net, at the only stadium in the Italian top flight where he had not previously scored. Ronaldo is the leading scorer in Serie A with 23 goals this season, ahead of Inter's Romelu Lukaku, who has 19. It was his third hat-trick for Juventus since joining in 2018, after also putting three past Cagliari in the league last season and in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid in 2019. Before kick-off, Juventus chief football officer Fabio Paratici dismissed talk about Ronaldo's future. "It makes me laugh. I would never have imagined discussing the value of Cristiano Ronaldo," said Paratici. "It's a privilege to have him with us, he's part of our future." Cagliari, two points above the relegation zone, pulled a goal back through Giovanni Simeone in the 61st minute. - Martinez pulls Inter clear - Lautaro Martinez scored a brilliant 85th-minute winner for Inter in a tight game against 18th-placed Torino. Antonio Conte's Inter once again needed their strike duo of Lukaku and Martinez to find a way to win in Turin. Christian Eriksen came off the bench on 56 minutes and had an immediate impact, playing a part in the move which resulted in Torino defender Armando Izzo fouling Martinez in the penalty area. Lukaku fired home the resulting spot-kick in the 62nd minute. Inter looked to be wobbling when Antonio Sanabria pulled Torino level eight minutes later, finishing off goalmouth scramble. But Martinez snatched the victory by getting his head to an Alexis Sanchez cross for his 14th league goal this term. Inter stretched their winning run to eight matches to move further ahead of AC Milan. "Victories like these are crucial," said Inter assistant coach Cristian Stellini, with Antonio Conte serving a touchline ban. "The three points were also vital for Torino who gave little away." Injury-hit Roma dropped to fifth, two points behind Atalanta and the Champions League berths after falling 2-0 at 19th-placed Parma who earned their first win since November 30. Valentin Mihaila opened the scoring on nine minutes following a cross from fellow Romanian Dennis Man. Hernani added a second from the spot in the second half to secure a valuable win which moves Parma a point behind Torino, who have played two games fewer because of a coronavirus outbreak, and three from safety.

Ronaldo hits back with hat-trick, Inter extend lead

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus crashed out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the second year running on Tuesday, losing to 10-man Porto on away goals despite winning the second leg 3-2 in Turin.</p>

<p>Sergio Oliveira's extra-time free-kick sent twice former winners Porto through to the quarter-finals as the tie finished 4-4 on aggregate.</p>

<p>Leading 2-1 from the first leg in Portugal, Oliveira's first-half penalty increased Porto's advantage but Juventus levelled the tie through two goals from Federico Chiesa, which came either side of Porto striker Mehdi Taremi's red card.</p>

<p>Oliveira then rifled home a low free-kick on 115 minutes, which passed through the legs of Ronaldo, with Adrien Rabiot's header in reply coming in vain for Juventus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you make four big errors over two legs in the Champions League last 16, you can get eliminated," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It will take a few days to wipe this game from our minds, but then we must play every game with the right attitude, realise we're still only in March and have time to climb the Serie A table."</p>

<p>Juventus had been counting on Portuguese striker Ronaldo, the competition's record goalscorer, and in-form Spaniard Alvaro Morata, who had scored six goals in the competition this season, to pull them through.</p>

<p>But Juventus' Champions League heartache stretching back 25 years continued, falling in the first knockout round the second consecutive year after losing to French club Lyon last season.</p>

<p>"The work of the whole team was important to go through in a manner that was fully deserved," said veteran Porto defender Pepe.</p>

<p>"It's hard to explain by words the way we managed to react (playing with 10 men). Today we showed lots of character: the players were focused and that made it easy for us."</p>

<p>Pirlo, in his first season as Juventus coach, had regained several injured players including midfielder Arthur and defender Leonardo Bonucci, but captain Giorgio Chiellini remained on the bench with Danilo suspended.</p>

<p>Porto goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin produced a sharp early save to turn away a Morata header, while Taremi nodded against the crossbar at the other end in a lively start to the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Italian champions fell behind on the night when Merih Demiral conceded a penalty after bundling over Taremi in the box, with Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers pointing to the spot.</p>

<p>Oliveira made no mistake, sending Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way to give the visitors a 3-1 advantage overall.</p>

<p>Marchesin continued his heroics, the Argentine blocking from Morata on 26 minutes and Rabiot minutes later after the French midfielder took aim from distance.</p>

<h2>- Chiesa revives Juve hopes -</h2>

<p>Juve hit back after the break thanks to Chiesa's double, the first on 49 minutes when Ronaldo controlled and knocked it back for Chiesa to curl in past Marchesin from a tight angle.</p>

<p>Porto soon went a man down with Taremi sent off for two quick yellow cards, the second for recklessly kicking the ball away.</p>

<p>Despite the Iranian's absence Porto managed to hold on, with Pepe intervening brilliantly to force Chiesa into striking the post after rounding Marchesin.</p>

<p>Chiesa made no mistake just after the hour getting his head to another perfect Juan Cuadrado cross which Marchesin again got a hand to but could not stop as Juve pulled level 3-3 on aggregate.</p>

<p>Ronaldo missed a chance to add to his tally of 134 Champions League goals after heading a Cuadrado delivery wide with 12 minutes to go.</p>

<p>It was end to end action with Marchesin denying Chiesa a hat-trick, while Morata had a goal ruled out for offside in injury time before Cuadrado was desperately unlucky to see his curling shot smack back off the bar.</p>

<p>Porto had the best chance of the first 15 minutes in extra time with Szczesny blocking a Moussa Marega header.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Oliviera won a free-kick and fired in low to beat Szczesny on 115 minutes amid wild celebrations from the Portuguese bench.</p>

<p>Two minutes later Rabiot headed Juventus back into contention but the hosts could not snatch another goal as their European adventure ended prematurely once more.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus crashed out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the second year running on Tuesday, losing to 10-man Porto on away goals despite winning the second leg 3-2 in Turin.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus crashed out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the second year running on Tuesday, losing to 10-man Porto on away goals despite winning the second leg 3-2 in Turin. Sergio Oliveira's extra-time free-kick sent twice former winners Porto through to the quarter-finals as the tie finished 4-4 on aggregate. Leading 2-1 from the first leg in Portugal, Oliveira's first-half penalty increased Porto's advantage but Juventus levelled the tie through two goals from Federico Chiesa, which came either side of Porto striker Mehdi Taremi's red card. Oliveira then rifled home a low free-kick on 115 minutes, which passed through the legs of Ronaldo, with Adrien Rabiot's header in reply coming in vain for Juventus. "When you make four big errors over two legs in the Champions League last 16, you can get eliminated," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo. "It will take a few days to wipe this game from our minds, but then we must play every game with the right attitude, realise we're still only in March and have time to climb the Serie A table." Juventus had been counting on Portuguese striker Ronaldo, the competition's record goalscorer, and in-form Spaniard Alvaro Morata, who had scored six goals in the competition this season, to pull them through. But Juventus' Champions League heartache stretching back 25 years continued, falling in the first knockout round the second consecutive year after losing to French club Lyon last season. "The work of the whole team was important to go through in a manner that was fully deserved," said veteran Porto defender Pepe. "It's hard to explain by words the way we managed to react (playing with 10 men). Today we showed lots of character: the players were focused and that made it easy for us." Pirlo, in his first season as Juventus coach, had regained several injured players including midfielder Arthur and defender Leonardo Bonucci, but captain Giorgio Chiellini remained on the bench with Danilo suspended. Porto goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin produced a sharp early save to turn away a Morata header, while Taremi nodded against the crossbar at the other end in a lively start to the game. The Italian champions fell behind on the night when Merih Demiral conceded a penalty after bundling over Taremi in the box, with Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers pointing to the spot. Oliveira made no mistake, sending Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way to give the visitors a 3-1 advantage overall. Marchesin continued his heroics, the Argentine blocking from Morata on 26 minutes and Rabiot minutes later after the French midfielder took aim from distance. - Chiesa revives Juve hopes - Juve hit back after the break thanks to Chiesa's double, the first on 49 minutes when Ronaldo controlled and knocked it back for Chiesa to curl in past Marchesin from a tight angle. Porto soon went a man down with Taremi sent off for two quick yellow cards, the second for recklessly kicking the ball away. Despite the Iranian's absence Porto managed to hold on, with Pepe intervening brilliantly to force Chiesa into striking the post after rounding Marchesin. Chiesa made no mistake just after the hour getting his head to another perfect Juan Cuadrado cross which Marchesin again got a hand to but could not stop as Juve pulled level 3-3 on aggregate. Ronaldo missed a chance to add to his tally of 134 Champions League goals after heading a Cuadrado delivery wide with 12 minutes to go. It was end to end action with Marchesin denying Chiesa a hat-trick, while Morata had a goal ruled out for offside in injury time before Cuadrado was desperately unlucky to see his curling shot smack back off the bar. Porto had the best chance of the first 15 minutes in extra time with Szczesny blocking a Moussa Marega header. But Oliviera won a free-kick and fired in low to beat Szczesny on 115 minutes amid wild celebrations from the Portuguese bench. Two minutes later Rabiot headed Juventus back into contention but the hosts could not snatch another goal as their European adventure ended prematurely once more.

Ronaldo silenced as Porto knock Juventus out of Champions League

cristiano-ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, News on Cristiano Ronaldo, stories on Cristiano Ronaldo, articles on Cristiano Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo stories at Wion, Cristiano Ronaldo news, Cristiano Ronaldo latest news

cristiano ronaldo