Juventus stayed top of Serie A with a 1-0 win over AC Milan thanks to Paulo Dybala's fine strike on Sunday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-cristiano-ronaldo-hits-late-juventus-winner-as-napoli-rage-at-potato-peeling-referees-258933">Cristiano Ronaldo </a>was substituted for the second game in a row and walked straight down the tunnel, clearly unhappy at the decision.

Ronaldo's replacement Dybala scored in the 77th minute with a goal the Portuguese would have been proud of. After a quick exchange of passes, the Argentine twisted past Alessio Romagnoli and beat Gianluigi Donnarumma with a right-foot shot.

Ronaldo was taken off in the 55th minute, his earliest substitution since he joined Juve at the start of last season and the first time he has been replaced twice in succession.

Despite producing a lacklustre display, Ronaldo gave coach Maurizio Sarri a dirty look, muttered something under his breath and walked straight down the tunnel.

Ronaldo also looked unhappy after being taken off during Wednesday's Champions League match at Lokomotiv Moscow, although Sarri said it was to avoid risking injury as the 34-year-old had complained of knee and thigh problems.

Gazzetta Dello Sport said Ronaldo left the stadium before the final whistle but Sarri denied there was a rift with the five-times World Player of the Year.

"There is no problem with Cristiano, and I thank him because he has played while not in perfect condition," he told reporters.

"The important thing is that he makes himself available. He gets angry when he is taken off but that is part of the game.

"It (his condition) is affecting his performances and he is not at his best at the moment. All players who are trying to give their best will have to be annoyed for at least five minutes when they are substituted."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Juventus</a>, chasing a ninth straight Serie A title and unbeaten in all competitions under Sarri, who took over before the season started, moved to 32 points, a point ahead of Inter Milan who went top after a 2-1 home win over Verona on Saturday.

Milan's problems continued as they were left down in 14th place on 13 points after their ninth successive away defeat to Juve in Serie A.

But they gave an improved performance and had the better chances in the first half.

Misfiring striker Krzysztof Piatek headed wide from an unmarked position and Lucas Paqueta's looping header forced Wojciech Szczesny into a difficult save.

Hakan Calhanoglu also tested Szczesny in the second half with a free kick before Dybala's moment of brilliance settled the match. The Argentine nearly struck again in stoppage time but was denied by Donnarumma.

Juventus stayed top of Serie A with a 1-0 win over AC Milan thanks to Paulo Dybala's fine strike on Sunday after Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted for the second game in a row and walked straight down the tunnel, clearly unhappy at the decision.

Juventus stayed top of Serie A with a 1-0 win over AC Milan thanks to Paulo Dybala's fine strike on Sunday after Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted for the second game in a row and walked straight down the tunnel, clearly unhappy at the decision. Ronaldo's replacement Dybala scored in the 77th minute with a goal the Portuguese would have been proud of. After a quick exchange of passes, the Argentine twisted past Alessio Romagnoli and beat Gianluigi Donnarumma with a right-foot shot. Ronaldo was taken off in the 55th minute, his earliest substitution since he joined Juve at the start of last season and the first time he has been replaced twice in succession. Despite producing a lacklustre display, Ronaldo gave coach Maurizio Sarri a dirty look, muttered something under his breath and walked straight down the tunnel. Ronaldo also looked unhappy after being taken off during Wednesday's Champions League match at Lokomotiv Moscow, although Sarri said it was to avoid risking injury as the 34-year-old had complained of knee and thigh problems. Gazzetta Dello Sport said Ronaldo left the stadium before the final whistle but Sarri denied there was a rift with the five-times World Player of the Year. "There is no problem with Cristiano, and I thank him because he has played while not in perfect condition," he told reporters. "The important thing is that he makes himself available. He gets angry when he is taken off but that is part of the game. "It (his condition) is affecting his performances and he is not at his best at the moment. All players who are trying to give their best will have to be annoyed for at least five minutes when they are substituted." Juventus, chasing a ninth straight Serie A title and unbeaten in all competitions under Sarri, who took over before the season started, moved to 32 points, a point ahead of Inter Milan who went top after a 2-1 home win over Verona on Saturday. Milan's problems continued as they were left down in 14th place on 13 points after their ninth successive away defeat to Juve in Serie A. But they gave an improved performance and had the better chances in the first half. Misfiring striker Krzysztof Piatek headed wide from an unmarked position and Lucas Paqueta's looping header forced Wojciech Szczesny into a difficult save. Hakan Calhanoglu also tested Szczesny in the second half with a free kick before Dybala's moment of brilliance settled the match. The Argentine nearly struck again in stoppage time but was denied by Donnarumma.

Serie A: Juventus' Dybala sinks Milan as angry Ronaldo substituted

Lionel Messi scored two exquisite free kicks as he netted his first hat-trick of the season in a 4-1 win over Celta Vigo at the Camp Nou on Saturday which took Barcelona back to the top of La Liga after a difficult week.

Barca's captain coolly converted a penalty to put the champions ahead in the 23rd minute but gave away a foul in a dangerous area which led to Lucas Olaza levelling for Celta with an outstanding strike from a free kick in the 42nd.

But Messi restored Barca's lead right before halftime with a stunning free-kick of his own, curling the ball into the top corner.

He conjured up an almost identical strike at the start of the second half to complete his treble and match Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 34 hat-tricks in Spain's top flight.

Sergio Busquets struck a fourth goal in the 85th to round off a first win for Barca in three games, after falling to a shock 3-1 defeat at Levante last week in La Liga and drawing 0-0 at home to Slavia Prague in the Champions League.

"We have a very big advantage, we have the best player in the world on our side who is also the best at taking free kicks," said Busquets in praise of Messi.

"Little by little he has been improving at free kicks, he used to find them hard. Having him around gives us a real boost."

Barca lead the standings on 25 points after 12 games, level with second-placed Real Madrid who eased to a 4-0 win at Eibar.

Despite going into the weekend within striking distance of top spot, the Catalans have had an uneasy campaign which hit a new low this week as players were booed off the pitch following the goalless draw at home against Slavia.

Subdues atmosphere

There was a subdued atmosphere at the Camp Nou on Saturday and close to 30,000 seats were left empty.

Celta were playing their first game under former Barca player Oscar Garcia, after Fran Escriba was sacked following four consecutive defeats.

The visitors did well to contain Barca in the opening stages until Messi took advantage from the penalty spot but howls of frustration could be heard across the ground after Olaza's superb equaliser.

As has so often been the case, it was up to Messi to lift the mood again.

"With Messi anything is possible," said Barca coach Valverde.

"He dominates the art of free-kick taking, and opponents know they cannot afford to give away fouls near our area. When they do, we try to take advantage."

The coach also underlined how important it was that his side got back to winning ways.

"When you lose a game it's always important to win the next one, especially at a club like ours. The other day we had a painful defeat and we had to win today," he said.

There was bad news for Barca after the fulltime whistle, however, as the club released a statement saying first-choice right back Nelson Semedo was ruled out for around five weeks with a calf injury sustained during the game.

Lionel Messi scored two exquisite free kicks as he netted his first hat-trick of the season in a 4-1 win over Celta Vigo at the Camp Nou on Saturday which took Barcelona back to the top of La Liga after a difficult week.

Lionel Messi scored two exquisite free kicks as he netted his first hat-trick of the season in a 4-1 win over Celta Vigo at the Camp Nou on Saturday which took Barcelona back to the top of La Liga after a difficult week. Barca's captain coolly converted a penalty to put the champions ahead in the 23rd minute but gave away a foul in a dangerous area which led to Lucas Olaza levelling for Celta with an outstanding strike from a free kick in the 42nd. But Messi restored Barca's lead right before halftime with a stunning free-kick of his own, curling the ball into the top corner. He conjured up an almost identical strike at the start of the second half to complete his treble and match Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 34 hat-tricks in Spain's top flight. Sergio Busquets struck a fourth goal in the 85th to round off a first win for Barca in three games, after falling to a shock 3-1 defeat at Levante last week in La Liga and drawing 0-0 at home to Slavia Prague in the Champions League. "We have a very big advantage, we have the best player in the world on our side who is also the best at taking free kicks," said Busquets in praise of Messi. "Little by little he has been improving at free kicks, he used to find them hard. Having him around gives us a real boost." Barca lead the standings on 25 points after 12 games, level with second-placed Real Madrid who eased to a 4-0 win at Eibar. Despite going into the weekend within striking distance of top spot, the Catalans have had an uneasy campaign which hit a new low this week as players were booed off the pitch following the goalless draw at home against Slavia. Subdues atmosphere There was a subdued atmosphere at the Camp Nou on Saturday and close to 30,000 seats were left empty. Celta were playing their first game under former Barca player Oscar Garcia, after Fran Escriba was sacked following four consecutive defeats. The visitors did well to contain Barca in the opening stages until Messi took advantage from the penalty spot but howls of frustration could be heard across the ground after Olaza's superb equaliser. As has so often been the case, it was up to Messi to lift the mood again. "With Messi anything is possible," said Barca coach Valverde. "He dominates the art of free-kick taking, and opponents know they cannot afford to give away fouls near our area. When they do, we try to take advantage." The coach also underlined how important it was that his side got back to winning ways. "When you lose a game it's always important to win the next one, especially at a club like ours. The other day we had a painful defeat and we had to win today," he said. There was bad news for Barca after the fulltime whistle, however, as the club released a statement saying first-choice right back Nelson Semedo was ruled out for around five weeks with a calf injury sustained during the game.

Messi gives set-piece masterclass as Barca crush Celta

Substitute Douglas Costa scored an exquisite stoppage-time goal to give Juventus a 2-1 win away to Lokomotiv Moscow on Wednesday, which clinched their place in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-oxlade-chamberlain-strike-gives-liverpool-win-over-genk-260251">Champions League</a> round of 16 with two games to spare.

The Brazilian collected the ball outside the area and raced past three defenders, exchanged passes with Gonzalo Higuain who backheeled the return to him and then left two more players in his wake before beating goalkeeper Guilherme to silence the Lokomotiv stadium.

Juventus top Group D with 10 points, three ahead of Atletico Madrid who are away to Bayer Leverkusen later on Wednesday while Lokomotiv have three points and Leverkusen none. The Serie A champions remain unbeaten in all competitions under Maurizio Sarri who took over during the close season.

Guilherme had gifted Juventus the lead after four minutes when he allowed Cristiano Ronaldo's powerful free kick from an unlikely position near the touchline to squirm through his legs before Aaron Ramsey touched the ball over the line.

Juventus forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-cristiano-ronaldo-hits-late-juventus-winner-as-napoli-rage-at-potato-peeling-referees-258933">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> was substituted in the second half for Paulo Dybala after feeling a twinge in his knee, according to Juventus coach Sarri.

"He's been feeling it for a few days and I preferred to take him off to avoid running any risks, even though he was angry," Sarri said.

"It wasn't one of our best performances. We allowed the opposition to win too many balls, we were too open in the first half and in the second we were too slow in moving the ball around."

Aleksei Miranchuk levelled eight minutes later for the Railwayman, scoring from the rebound after his own header hit the post.

On a rainy Moscow evening, Guilherme then atoned for his mistake by making two saves in quick succession from Higuain.

The Brazil-born goalkeeper was almost caught out after another Ronaldo free kick bounced awkwardly in front of him early in the second half but then made another brilliant save to turn away the Portuguese forward's powerful drive.

Far from outclassed, Lokomotiv nearly went ahead in the 78th minute but Joao Mario saw his shot cleared off the line by Leonardo Bonucci with goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny caught out of his ground.

In the end, Sarri's substitutions paid off as Juventus took all the points thanks to an inspired moment from Costa.

"We had chances to win this game and I think I would have been happy with a draw," said Lokomotiv's 72-year-old coach Yuri Semin, who is in his fourth stint in the job. "We played a really good match, defended well, but it was still not enough in the end."

Substitute Douglas Costa scored an exquisite stoppage-time goal to give Juventus a 2-1 win away to Lokomotiv Moscow on Wednesday, which clinched their place in the Champions League round of 16 with two games to spare.

Substitute Douglas Costa scored an exquisite stoppage-time goal to give Juventus a 2-1 win away to Lokomotiv Moscow on Wednesday, which clinched their place in the Champions League round of 16 with two games to spare. The Brazilian collected the ball outside the area and raced past three defenders, exchanged passes with Gonzalo Higuain who backheeled the return to him and then left two more players in his wake before beating goalkeeper Guilherme to silence the Lokomotiv stadium. Juventus top Group D with 10 points, three ahead of Atletico Madrid who are away to Bayer Leverkusen later on Wednesday while Lokomotiv have three points and Leverkusen none. The Serie A champions remain unbeaten in all competitions under Maurizio Sarri who took over during the close season. Guilherme had gifted Juventus the lead after four minutes when he allowed Cristiano Ronaldo's powerful free kick from an unlikely position near the touchline to squirm through his legs before Aaron Ramsey touched the ball over the line. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted in the second half for Paulo Dybala after feeling a twinge in his knee, according to Juventus coach Sarri. "He's been feeling it for a few days and I preferred to take him off to avoid running any risks, even though he was angry," Sarri said. "It wasn't one of our best performances. We allowed the opposition to win too many balls, we were too open in the first half and in the second we were too slow in moving the ball around." Aleksei Miranchuk levelled eight minutes later for the Railwayman, scoring from the rebound after his own header hit the post. On a rainy Moscow evening, Guilherme then atoned for his mistake by making two saves in quick succession from Higuain. The Brazil-born goalkeeper was almost caught out after another Ronaldo free kick bounced awkwardly in front of him early in the second half but then made another brilliant save to turn away the Portuguese forward's powerful drive. Far from outclassed, Lokomotiv nearly went ahead in the 78th minute but Joao Mario saw his shot cleared off the line by Leonardo Bonucci with goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny caught out of his ground. In the end, Sarri's substitutions paid off as Juventus took all the points thanks to an inspired moment from Costa. "We had chances to win this game and I think I would have been happy with a draw," said Lokomotiv's 72-year-old coach Yuri Semin, who is in his fourth stint in the job. "We played a really good match, defended well, but it was still not enough in the end."

Champions League: Costa's stoppage-time gem sends Juventus into last 16

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cristiano-ronaldo-hits-milestone-with-700th-career-goal-256054">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> converted a 96th-minute penalty as Juventus defeated Thiago Motta's Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in Serie A on Wednesday, while Napoli were left seething after conceding a disputed late equaliser against Atalanta.

Ronaldo sat out the 1-1 draw at Lecce over the weekend but Juve looked set to drop more points on his return in Turin as Christian Kouame's fluke equaliser cancelled out a header from Leonardo Bonucci.

The Portuguese forward saw a stoppage-time strike ruled out by VAR for offside before he won a last-gasp penalty after he was fouled by Toni Sanabria.

Ronaldo drilled the spot-kick low beyond Ionut Radu for his fifth league goal of the season to send Maurizio Sarri's Juve back above Inter Milan at the summit.

"It was a difficult game against a well-organised team but Juve must keep going until the end," Ronaldo told Sky Sport.

"We suffered a lot tonight but we created a lot and deserved this win."

Genoa, in their second game under Motta, played most of the second half with 10 men after Francesco Cassata was sent off, while Juve substitute Adrien Rabiot was dismissed late on for two bookable offences.

Atalanta twice fought back from a goal behind to hold Napoli to a 2-2 draw at the San Paolo, where a fiery ending resulted in red cards for Carlo Ancelotti and his assistant.&nbsp;

Josip Ilicic struck a contentious 86th-minute equaliser that was upheld following a lengthy VAR review, as Napoli appealed for a penalty.

Napoli forward Fernando Llorente tumbled to the ground after jostling with Simon Kjaer in the Atalanta area before the visitors countered and scored through Ilicic.

A five-minute interruption followed before the referee awarded the goal without reviewing the incident on the touchline monitor.&nbsp;

"I consider what happened an attack on my professionalism, my players and my club," Ancelotti said.

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was livid with the officiating.

"If there is VAR it's pointless creating eight minutes of additional time because all that happens is pushing and shouting," he told Sky Sport Italia.&nbsp;

"And what is this buffoonery from the referee who kicks out a gentleman like Ancelotti?

"We're fed up. Without us, the referees would be peeling potatoes. We're tired of paying for this standard of refereeing."

Nikola Maksimovic had headed Napoli into the lead on 16 minutes, but Remo Freuler levelled just before half-time when his shot squirmed through goalkeeper Alex Meret.

Polish striker Arkadiusz Milik hit the post and crossbar before putting Napoli back on top on 71 minutes when he raced onto a Fabian Ruiz pass and rounded Pierluigi Gollini.

However, Ilicic levelled and nearly grabbed a winner in stoppage time for Atalanta, who stayed third but now trail leaders Juve by five points.&nbsp;

"From the pitch, I thought it was a penalty. Then, seeing the images, I saw a big elbow to Kjaer's face," Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini said of the passage of play that led to his team's controversial equaliser.

"The images are very clear. Whoever was in the VAR booth confirmed what the referee saw, but I'm rightly biased."

Roma climbed above Napoli into fourth after a 4-0 rout of Udinese despite losing Federico Fazio to a red card on 31 minutes.

Nicolo Zaniolo opened the scoring before the dismissal of Fazio for a foul as the last defender.

Chris Smalling doubled Roma's lead early in the second half with a Justin Kluivert goal and Aleksandar Kolarov penalty wrapping up victory.

Ciro Immobile struck twice to take his league-leading tally to 12 goals as Lazio swept Torino aside 4-0.&nbsp;

Cagliari extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a 3-2 win over Bologna while Fiorentina came from behind to defeat Sassuolo 2-1.

Sampdoria remains rooted to the foot of the table despite Gaston Ramirez salvaging a 1-1 draw with an injury-time equaliser at home to Lecce.

&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo converted a 96th-minute penalty as Juventus defeated Thiago Motta's Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in Serie A on Wednesday, while Napoli were left seething after conceding a disputed late equaliser against Atalanta.

Cristiano Ronaldo converted a 96th-minute penalty as Juventus defeated Thiago Motta's Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in Serie A on Wednesday, while Napoli were left seething after conceding a disputed late equaliser against Atalanta. Ronaldo sat out the 1-1 draw at Lecce over the weekend but Juve looked set to drop more points on his return in Turin as Christian Kouame's fluke equaliser cancelled out a header from Leonardo Bonucci. The Portuguese forward saw a stoppage-time strike ruled out by VAR for offside before he won a last-gasp penalty after he was fouled by Toni Sanabria. Ronaldo drilled the spot-kick low beyond Ionut Radu for his fifth league goal of the season to send Maurizio Sarri's Juve back above Inter Milan at the summit. "It was a difficult game against a well-organised team but Juve must keep going until the end," Ronaldo told Sky Sport. "We suffered a lot tonight but we created a lot and deserved this win." Genoa, in their second game under Motta, played most of the second half with 10 men after Francesco Cassata was sent off, while Juve substitute Adrien Rabiot was dismissed late on for two bookable offences. Atalanta twice fought back from a goal behind to hold Napoli to a 2-2 draw at the San Paolo, where a fiery ending resulted in red cards for Carlo Ancelotti and his assistant. Josip Ilicic struck a contentious 86th-minute equaliser that was upheld following a lengthy VAR review, as Napoli appealed for a penalty. Napoli forward Fernando Llorente tumbled to the ground after jostling with Simon Kjaer in the Atalanta area before the visitors countered and scored through Ilicic. A five-minute interruption followed before the referee awarded the goal without reviewing the incident on the touchline monitor. "I consider what happened an attack on my professionalism, my players and my club," Ancelotti said. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was livid with the officiating. "If there is VAR it's pointless creating eight minutes of additional time because all that happens is pushing and shouting," he told Sky Sport Italia. "And what is this buffoonery from the referee who kicks out a gentleman like Ancelotti? "We're fed up. Without us, the referees would be peeling potatoes. We're tired of paying for this standard of refereeing." Nikola Maksimovic had headed Napoli into the lead on 16 minutes, but Remo Freuler levelled just before half-time when his shot squirmed through goalkeeper Alex Meret. Polish striker Arkadiusz Milik hit the post and crossbar before putting Napoli back on top on 71 minutes when he raced onto a Fabian Ruiz pass and rounded Pierluigi Gollini. However, Ilicic levelled and nearly grabbed a winner in stoppage time for Atalanta, who stayed third but now trail leaders Juve by five points. "From the pitch, I thought it was a penalty. Then, seeing the images, I saw a big elbow to Kjaer's face," Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini said of the passage of play that led to his team's controversial equaliser. "The images are very clear. Whoever was in the VAR booth confirmed what the referee saw, but I'm rightly biased." Roma climbed above Napoli into fourth after a 4-0 rout of Udinese despite losing Federico Fazio to a red card on 31 minutes. Nicolo Zaniolo opened the scoring before the dismissal of Fazio for a foul as the last defender. Chris Smalling doubled Roma's lead early in the second half with a Justin Kluivert goal and Aleksandar Kolarov penalty wrapping up victory. Ciro Immobile struck twice to take his league-leading tally to 12 goals as Lazio swept Torino aside 4-0. Cagliari extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a 3-2 win over Bologna while Fiorentina came from behind to defeat Sassuolo 2-1. Sampdoria remains rooted to the foot of the table despite Gaston Ramirez salvaging a 1-1 draw with an injury-time equaliser at home to Lecce.

Serie A: Cristiano Ronaldo hits late Juventus winner as Napoli rage at 'potato-peeling' referees

Dutch centre back Virgil van Dijk is one of seven Liverpool players on the 30-man shortlist for this year's Ballon d'Or, with the Champions League winners dominating the nominations for France Football magazine's prestigious award.

Van Dijk's club teammates Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Georginio Wijnaldum and Alisson are also on the list, along with Manchester City's Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Kevin de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Sergio Aguero.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi, who have won the award 10 times between them, are included, but Messi's former teammate Neymar, who now plays for Paris St Germain, missed out.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Son Heung-min and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris made the cut, but there was no room for their teammate Harry Kane, while Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba was another high-profile omission.

30-MAN SHORTLIST

Liverpool - Virgil van Dijk; Roberto Firmino; Alisson; Georginio Wijnaldum; Trent Alexander-Arnold; Sadio Mane; Mohammed Salah

Manchester City - Bernardo Silva; Riyad Mahrez; Kevin de Bruyne; Raheem Sterling; Sergio Aguero

Tottenham Hotspur - Son Heung-min; Hugo Lloris

Barcelona - Lionel Messi; Antoine Griezmann; Frenkie de Jong; Marc-Andre ter Stegen

Real Madrid - Eden Hazard; Karim Benzema

Juventus - Cristiano Ronaldo; Matthijs de Ligt

Bayern Munich - Robert Lewandowski

Ajax Amsterdam - Dusan Tadic; Donny van de Beek

Paris St Germain - Kylian Mbappe; Marquinhos

Arsenal - Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Napoli - Kalidou Koulibaly

Atletico Madrid - Joao Felix

Dutch centre back Virgil van Dijk is one of seven Liverpool players on the 30-man shortlist for this year's Ballon d'Or, with the Champions League winners dominating the nominations for France Football magazine's prestigious award.

Dutch centre back Virgil van Dijk is one of seven Liverpool players on the 30-man shortlist for this year's Ballon d'Or, with the Champions League winners dominating the nominations for France Football magazine's prestigious award. Van Dijk's club teammates Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Georginio Wijnaldum and Alisson are also on the list, along with Manchester City's Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Kevin de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Sergio Aguero. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi, who have won the award 10 times between them, are included, but Messi's former teammate Neymar, who now plays for Paris St Germain, missed out. Tottenham Hotspur striker Son Heung-min and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris made the cut, but there was no room for their teammate Harry Kane, while Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba was another high-profile omission. 30-MAN SHORTLIST Liverpool - Virgil van Dijk; Roberto Firmino; Alisson; Georginio Wijnaldum; Trent Alexander-Arnold; Sadio Mane; Mohammed Salah Manchester City - Bernardo Silva; Riyad Mahrez; Kevin de Bruyne; Raheem Sterling; Sergio Aguero Tottenham Hotspur - Son Heung-min; Hugo Lloris Barcelona - Lionel Messi; Antoine Griezmann; Frenkie de Jong; Marc-Andre ter Stegen Real Madrid - Eden Hazard; Karim Benzema Juventus - Cristiano Ronaldo; Matthijs de Ligt Bayern Munich - Robert Lewandowski Ajax Amsterdam - Dusan Tadic; Donny van de Beek Paris St Germain - Kylian Mbappe; Marquinhos Arsenal - Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Napoli - Kalidou Koulibaly Atletico Madrid - Joao Felix

Liverpool dominates Ballon d'Or shortlist with seven names

Ukraine beat Portugal 2-1 on Monday to clinch a place at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-italy-becomes-second-team-to-qualify-after-2-0-win-over-greece-255554">Euro 2020 despite Cristiano Ronaldo</a> scoring his 700th career goal.

Roman Yaremchuk and Andriy Yarmolenko put Ukraine two goals up after 27 minutes.

Although Ronaldo scored his landmark goal from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute and Taras Stepanenko was sent off, Ukraine held on to secure first place in Group B.

Ukraine join already qualified Poland, Russia, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belgium-first-team-into-euro-2020-finals-after-9-0-win-255114">Italy and Belgium</a> at next summer's finals, while second-placed Portugal, who are eight points behind Ukraine, have Serbia just a point behind them with two matches remaning after they beat Lithuania 2-1.

"There are days like these, when the ball just doesn't want to go in," said Portuguese midfielder Danilo. "No need to do the maths now: we just need to win the next two games to reach Euro 2020."

Yaremchuk pounced from close range in the sixth minute. The centre forward reacted fastest after Rui Patricio dived to parry Serhiy Kryvtsov's header from a corner, and poke the ball across the line.

Yarmolenko added the second when outpaced the Portuguese defence to finish a swift counter attack with a low, crisp first-time shot.

Portugal dominated the second half and finally achieved a breakthrough when Stepanenko blocked a shot with his arm, receiving his marching orders before Ronaldo blasted home the penalty to make it 700 goals for club and country.

The goal was his 95th for Portugal. The 34-year-old is now just 14 goals behind the all-time international record of 109 held by former Iran striker Ali Daei.

While the exact number of goals scored by some of the game's legends is the subject of debate, Ronaldo is agreed to be the sixth player to reach 700 after Austrian Josef Bican, Brazilians Romario and Pele, Hungarian Ferenc Puskas and German Gerd Muller.

Ukraine beat Portugal 2-1 on Monday to clinch a place at Euro 2020 despite Cristiano Ronaldo scoring his 700th career goal. Roman Yaremchuk and Andriy Yarmolenko put Ukraine two goals up after 27 minutes.

Ukraine beat Portugal 2-1 on Monday to clinch a place at Euro 2020 despite Cristiano Ronaldo scoring his 700th career goal. Roman Yaremchuk and Andriy Yarmolenko put Ukraine two goals up after 27 minutes. Although Ronaldo scored his landmark goal from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute and Taras Stepanenko was sent off, Ukraine held on to secure first place in Group B. Ukraine join already qualified Poland, Russia, Italy and Belgium at next summer's finals, while second-placed Portugal, who are eight points behind Ukraine, have Serbia just a point behind them with two matches remaning after they beat Lithuania 2-1. "There are days like these, when the ball just doesn't want to go in," said Portuguese midfielder Danilo. "No need to do the maths now: we just need to win the next two games to reach Euro 2020." Yaremchuk pounced from close range in the sixth minute. The centre forward reacted fastest after Rui Patricio dived to parry Serhiy Kryvtsov's header from a corner, and poke the ball across the line. Yarmolenko added the second when outpaced the Portuguese defence to finish a swift counter attack with a low, crisp first-time shot. Portugal dominated the second half and finally achieved a breakthrough when Stepanenko blocked a shot with his arm, receiving his marching orders before Ronaldo blasted home the penalty to make it 700 goals for club and country. The goal was his 95th for Portugal. The 34-year-old is now just 14 goals behind the all-time international record of 109 held by former Iran striker Ali Daei. While the exact number of goals scored by some of the game's legends is the subject of debate, Ronaldo is agreed to be the sixth player to reach 700 after Austrian Josef Bican, Brazilians Romario and Pele, Hungarian Ferenc Puskas and German Gerd Muller.

Euro 2020 qualifier: Ukraine beat Portugal despite Cristiano Ronaldo's milestone goal

Cristiano Ronaldo hits milestone with 700th career goal

I don't go looking for them; records are looking for me, said Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring his career's 700th goal.

"Records come naturally - I don't go looking for them; records are looking for me! Without having an obsession, they happen naturally," Goal.com quoted Ronaldo'.

Ronaldo touched the 700-goal mark during Portuguese's Euro 2020 qualifying match against Ukraine on Monday.

By doing so, he became the only sixth player in history to do so.

After achieving the feat, Ronaldo thanked his team-mates and coaches."Thank you to my team-mates, colleagues and coaches who have helped me to become the player I am," he said.

The Juventus forward also said that he does not know how many records he has to his name.

"How many records do I have? I don't&nbsp;know. I have to enjoy the moment and thank those who helped me reach this impressive mark," he said.

However, the Portuguese faced a 1-2 defeat against Ukraine and Ronaldo expressed his disappointment over the defeat."I am disappointed that we didn`t win but proud of the team," Ronaldo said.&nbsp;

I don't go looking for them; records are looking for me, said Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring his career's 700th goal. "Records come naturally - I don't go looking for them; records are looking for me!

I don't go looking for them; records are looking for me, said Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring his career's 700th goal. "Records come naturally - I don't go looking for them; records are looking for me! Without having an obsession, they happen naturally," Goal.com quoted Ronaldo'. Ronaldo touched the 700-goal mark during Portuguese's Euro 2020 qualifying match against Ukraine on Monday. By doing so, he became the only sixth player in history to do so. After achieving the feat, Ronaldo thanked his team-mates and coaches."Thank you to my team-mates, colleagues and coaches who have helped me to become the player I am," he said. The Juventus forward also said that he does not know how many records he has to his name. "How many records do I have? I don't know. I have to enjoy the moment and thank those who helped me reach this impressive mark," he said. However, the Portuguese faced a 1-2 defeat against Ukraine and Ronaldo expressed his disappointment over the defeat."I am disappointed that we didn`t win but proud of the team," Ronaldo said.

I don't go looking for them, records are looking for me: Ronaldo on 700th goal

Cristiano Ronaldo moved to within six goals of his international century when he scored in a 3-0 win over Luxembourg on Friday which kept the defending champions on course for the Euro 2020 finals.

The veteran star hit his 94th goal for the Portuguese and took his overall career tally to 699 when he found the target in the second half after Bernardo Silva had opened the scoring in the first period.

The three points kept Portugal in second place in Group B, five points behind Ukraine who defeated Lithuania 2-0.

The two meet in Kiev on Monday.

"In the first 25 minutes we were very good, very dynamic and created chances," said Fernando Santos who was marking his fifth anniversary as Portugal coach.

"Then we lost depth, Luxembourg became more comfortable but never created opportunities. After the break, we started well and I think we quickly controlled the game, but after the second goal, the players started thinking ahead to Ukraine."

Portugal went ahead at the Estadio Jose Alvalade home of Sporting Lisbon in the 16th minute.

Barcelona defender Nelson Semedo's effort was only parried by Luxembourg goalkeeper Anthony Moris and Manchester City midfielder Silva was on hand to sweep in the opener.

It was the second goal in three internationals for Silva who arrived in Portugal under a cloud having been charged with misconduct by the English Football Association over a controversial social media post comparing City teammate Benjamin Mendy with a black cartoon character.

At the other end, it wasn't until the 35th minute that Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio was called into action for the first time to deny Vincent Thill, whose brother Olivier was also in the starting line-up of&nbsp;Luxembourg.

Ronaldo had his first real chance of the second half but his ambitious overhead kick was easily dealt with by Moris.

However, he made no mistake in the 65th minute when he took his international tally to 94 as he stole the ball off Maxime Chanot before lobbing it over Moris.

The 34-year-old is now just 15 goals behind the all-time international record of 109 held by former Iran striker Ali Daei.

There was time for Portugal to add a third in the dying moments through Goncalo Guedes.

Cristiano Ronaldo moved to within six goals of his international century when he scored in a 3-0 win over Luxembourg on Friday which kept the defending champions on course for the Euro 2020 finals.

Cristiano Ronaldo moved to within six goals of his international century when he scored in a 3-0 win over Luxembourg on Friday which kept the defending champions on course for the Euro 2020 finals. The veteran star hit his 94th goal for the Portuguese and took his overall career tally to 699 when he found the target in the second half after Bernardo Silva had opened the scoring in the first period. The three points kept Portugal in second place in Group B, five points behind Ukraine who defeated Lithuania 2-0. The two meet in Kiev on Monday. "In the first 25 minutes we were very good, very dynamic and created chances," said Fernando Santos who was marking his fifth anniversary as Portugal coach. "Then we lost depth, Luxembourg became more comfortable but never created opportunities. After the break, we started well and I think we quickly controlled the game, but after the second goal, the players started thinking ahead to Ukraine." Portugal went ahead at the Estadio Jose Alvalade home of Sporting Lisbon in the 16th minute. Barcelona defender Nelson Semedo's effort was only parried by Luxembourg goalkeeper Anthony Moris and Manchester City midfielder Silva was on hand to sweep in the opener. It was the second goal in three internationals for Silva who arrived in Portugal under a cloud having been charged with misconduct by the English Football Association over a controversial social media post comparing City teammate Benjamin Mendy with a black cartoon character. At the other end, it wasn't until the 35th minute that Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio was called into action for the first time to deny Vincent Thill, whose brother Olivier was also in the starting line-up of Luxembourg. Ronaldo had his first real chance of the second half but his ambitious overhead kick was easily dealt with by Moris. However, he made no mistake in the 65th minute when he took his international tally to 94 as he stole the ball off Maxime Chanot before lobbing it over Moris. The 34-year-old is now just 15 goals behind the all-time international record of 109 held by former Iran striker Ali Daei. There was time for Portugal to add a third in the dying moments through Goncalo Guedes.

Euro 2020: Ronaldo edges closer to century of international goals in Portugal win

FC Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has said he considered leaving the club when he was investigated for tax fraud in 2013, saying he felt "badly treated" by Spain.

Messi, who has been at Barcelona since he was 13 and is their all-time top scorer, was found guilty in 2016 along with his father Jorge of defrauding the Spanish government of 4.2 million euros&nbsp;between 2007 and 2009 over income earned from image rights.

The Argentina international was handed a prison sentence of 21 months and ordered to pay a fine of 2 million euros.

He did not serve any jail time after exchanging his sentence for a fine of 250,000 euros, as in Spain defendants without a previous conviction are permitted to serve any sentence of under two years on probation.

He was first investigated in 2013, beginning a spate of tax fraud cases against top footballers in Spain including Cristiano Ronaldo, Javier Mascherano, and Marcelo.

"Sincerely, at that time, I thought about leaving," Messi told Barcelona-based radio station RAC1 in an interview broadcast on Wednesday.

"Not because of Barcelona but because I wanted to leave Spain, I felt very badly treated and I didn't want to stay here any longer.

"I had my doors open to many clubs but I never got an official offer because everyone knew I really wanted to stay. This situation went way beyond my feelings for Barca."

Messi added that he felt he was made an example of by the Spanish tax authorities, who stepped up their efforts against tax fraud after Spain's deep economic crisis hit.

"I was the first and that's why they came down so hard on me. They made an example of me and showed that it was going to be like this for everyone. It was tough because of everything that was happening at that time," he said.

FC Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has said he considered leaving the club when he was investigated for tax fraud in 2013, saying he felt "badly treated" by Spain.

FC Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has said he considered leaving the club when he was investigated for tax fraud in 2013, saying he felt "badly treated" by Spain. Messi, who has been at Barcelona since he was 13 and is their all-time top scorer, was found guilty in 2016 along with his father Jorge of defrauding the Spanish government of 4.2 million euros between 2007 and 2009 over income earned from image rights. The Argentina international was handed a prison sentence of 21 months and ordered to pay a fine of 2 million euros. He did not serve any jail time after exchanging his sentence for a fine of 250,000 euros, as in Spain defendants without a previous conviction are permitted to serve any sentence of under two years on probation. He was first investigated in 2013, beginning a spate of tax fraud cases against top footballers in Spain including Cristiano Ronaldo, Javier Mascherano, and Marcelo. "Sincerely, at that time, I thought about leaving," Messi told Barcelona-based radio station RAC1 in an interview broadcast on Wednesday. "Not because of Barcelona but because I wanted to leave Spain, I felt very badly treated and I didn't want to stay here any longer. "I had my doors open to many clubs but I never got an official offer because everyone knew I really wanted to stay. This situation went way beyond my feelings for Barca." Messi added that he felt he was made an example of by the Spanish tax authorities, who stepped up their efforts against tax fraud after Spain's deep economic crisis hit. "I was the first and that's why they came down so hard on me. They made an example of me and showed that it was going to be like this for everyone. It was tough because of everything that was happening at that time," he said.

Messi wanted to leave Barca during tax investigation

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo said he deserves to end his soccer career with more Ballon d'Or awards than Barcelona counterpart Lionel Messi and hopes to establish himself as the greatest player of all time.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo said he deserves to end his soccer career with more Ballon d'Or awards than Barcelona counterpart Lionel Messi and hopes to establish himself as the greatest player of all time. Ronaldo, 34, has won the renowned France Football magazine trophy for the world's best player five times - as many as Messi - but is eager for more as he moves into the twilight of his career. "Messi's in the history of football," Ronaldo told broadcaster Piers Morgan in an interview with Britain's ITV on Tuesday. "But I think I have to have six or seven or eight to be above him," he said, referring to the Ballon d'Or awards. "I'd love it, I think I deserve it." The Portugal captain said he was no friend of the Argentine but credited his rival for helping push him further in his own career. "My relationship with him is, we are not friends, but we have shared this stage for 15 years," Ronaldo said. "I know that he has pushed me to be a better player and I have pushed him to be a better player as well." Ronaldo, who also played for Manchester United and Real Madrid, has five UEFA Champions League winners' medals and led Portugal to victory at the 2016 UEFA European Championship and 2019 UEFA Nations League tournaments. "I don't follow the records, the records follow me. I'm addicted to the success, and I don't think it's something bad, I think it's good," Ronaldo said. "It motivates me. If you're not motivated, it's better to stop."

I deserve more Ballon d'Or awards than Messi, says Ronaldo

Pep Guardiola would love Raheem Sterling to reach the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Manchester City manager is not sure if any player will be able to equal the feats of that legendary pair.

Others have recently been comparing Sterling to the two dominant players of the last decade.

England manager Gareth Southgate suggested Sterling could eventually be mentioned in the same breath as Messi and Ronaldo when asked how far the City winger could go if he maintains his superb form.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has also said that he sees Sterling as a potential future winner of the Ballon d'Or -- an award Barcelona star Messi and Juventus forward Ronaldo have each won five times.

City manager Guardiola is thrilled at Sterling's progress during their three years working together, but having also coached Messi at Barca, he knows the exceptional standards required at that exalted level.

"Right now, Raheem is not in that level, but maybe in the future I wish. It would be a dream for him and for all of us," Guardiola told reporters.

"The consistency of these two guys, they are legends, something unique in world football.

"If Raheem can target that level –- wow. We will be there to help him and of course he can do it.

"But right now, nobody, not in the club, or in all the clubs in the world&nbsp;can compare with these two guys and what they have done every single week for ten years. Nobody."

Sterling in electric form

Sterling enjoyed his best goal-scoring season last year as he netted 25 times to help City win the domestic treble of Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.

He has started the new season in electric form with eight goals in seven games for club and country. He scored in both Euro 2020 qualifiers for England during the international break.

To understand what Sterling is up against, Ronaldo's mark of 29 club goals last season for Juventus is the lowest figure either he or Messi have recorded in the last decade.

As City prepare to resume their Premier League campaign, away to Norwich on Saturday, Guardiola has noticed how the 24-year-old is becoming much more clinical in front of goal -- as Sterling aims to improve on his best league tally of 18 from 2017-18.&nbsp;

"Before Raheem made good actions and dribbles, but he didn't finish too much. Now he is a player who can win games for himself," Guardiola said.

"It is a case of practice, practice, practice –- and mentality. The guy who scores goals is because he arrives in front of goal. If you are not there, it's impossible.

"In the beginning, he didn't get there. Now he is always there. I have the sense that he has the desire and commitment to score goals and that's why he scores more goals and has more assists."

Pep Guardiola would love Raheem Sterling to reach the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Manchester City manager is not sure if any player will be able to equal the feats of that legendary pair.

Pep Guardiola would love Raheem Sterling to reach the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Manchester City manager is not sure if any player will be able to equal the feats of that legendary pair. Others have recently been comparing Sterling to the two dominant players of the last decade. England manager Gareth Southgate suggested Sterling could eventually be mentioned in the same breath as Messi and Ronaldo when asked how far the City winger could go if he maintains his superb form. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has also said that he sees Sterling as a potential future winner of the Ballon d'Or -- an award Barcelona star Messi and Juventus forward Ronaldo have each won five times. City manager Guardiola is thrilled at Sterling's progress during their three years working together, but having also coached Messi at Barca, he knows the exceptional standards required at that exalted level. "Right now, Raheem is not in that level, but maybe in the future I wish. It would be a dream for him and for all of us," Guardiola told reporters. "The consistency of these two guys, they are legends, something unique in world football. "If Raheem can target that level –- wow. We will be there to help him and of course he can do it. "But right now, nobody, not in the club, or in all the clubs in the world can compare with these two guys and what they have done every single week for ten years. Nobody." Sterling in electric form Sterling enjoyed his best goal-scoring season last year as he netted 25 times to help City win the domestic treble of Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. He has started the new season in electric form with eight goals in seven games for club and country. He scored in both Euro 2020 qualifiers for England during the international break. To understand what Sterling is up against, Ronaldo's mark of 29 club goals last season for Juventus is the lowest figure either he or Messi have recorded in the last decade. As City prepare to resume their Premier League campaign, away to Norwich on Saturday, Guardiola has noticed how the 24-year-old is becoming much more clinical in front of goal -- as Sterling aims to improve on his best league tally of 18 from 2017-18. "Before Raheem made good actions and dribbles, but he didn't finish too much. Now he is a player who can win games for himself," Guardiola said. "It is a case of practice, practice, practice –- and mentality. The guy who scores goals is because he arrives in front of goal. If you are not there, it's impossible. "In the beginning, he didn't get there. Now he is always there. I have the sense that he has the desire and commitment to score goals and that's why he scores more goals and has more assists."

Raheem Sterling not on same level as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, says Pep Guardiola

Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Italian league action after his four-goal spree for Portugal as Juventus head for Fiorentina on Saturday also boosted by coach Maurizio Sarri's highly-anticipated debut on the bench after a bout of pneumonia.

The ex-Chelsea coach missed his first two league games with the Serie A champions against Parma and his former club Napoli.

But the 60-year-old will be on the bench for the first time on Saturday as Juventus look to make it three wins this season before their Champions League opener at Atletico Madrid midweek.

Ronaldo's four goals in Portugal's European qualifying win over Lithuania during the week were enough to send shivers down the spines of Fiorentina fans.

The 34-year-old overtook Ireland's Robbie Keane as the all-time top scorer in Euro qualifiers, with 25 goals, and will be looking to impress further with the winner of the Best FIFA Football Awards to be named in Milan on September 23.

Ronaldo will lead the Juventus attack along with Douglas Costa and Gonzalo Higuain, the Argentine also in-form on his return to Turin after a loan spell at Chelsea.

"I'm back on the same team as Cris (Ronaldo) after a few years and he's even stronger, more complete and ambitious, I'm happy to play with him again," said Higuain, who played alongside Ronaldo on Real Madrid, said on Thursday.

Fiorentina have also changed owners and coach with former AC Milan and Sevilla manager Vincenzo Montella overseeing two defeats in as many games on his return to the club.

"Great stories are born of impossible challenges," said Montella, whose side last beat their fierce rivals in January 2017.

The rivalry has been fuelled further after Juventus wrapped up their eighth consecutive title with a 2-1 win at the expense of the Tuscans last April.

"I'd like to start a new chapter in Fiorentina's history by doing something special against Sarri's team," Montella told Gazzetta Dello Sport.

And Montella believes that new French signing Franck Ribery can make the difference for the team.

"Franck played the friendly against Perugia as if he was playing the Champions League final," he said.

"He's different, as Ronaldo is different. We talk of stars who excel through sacrifice. They are wonderful examples for everyone."&nbsp;

"It will be hard, very hard, but we're convinced that we will see a new great Fiorentina," said new Italian-American owner Rocco Commisso hoping to build a team who can add to their &nbsp;Serie A titles in 1956 and 1969.

Ancelotti 'outrage'

Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli, who are midtable, need to pick themselves up after Kalidou Koulibaly's own goal handed Juventus a 4-3 win in Turin last weekend.

But they play their first match at home this season against Sampdoria with doubts over whether their San Paolo stadium will be ready in time.

The Serie A outfit played their opening two league games away from home, at Fiorentina and Juventus, due to the reconstruction of the stadium.

Ancelotti said he was "outraged" after seeing the state of the changing rooms midweek with their Champions League opener against Liverpool next Tuesday.

The contractors have however insisted the work will be completed by Friday.

Inter Milan welcome Udinese to the San Siro also looking to extend their maximum points with Antonio Conte's side ahead of both Juventus and Torino &nbsp;on goal difference.

Inter's new star signing Romelu Lukaku will be looking to score for a third consecutive game a week after monkey chants against the Belgian tarnished their 2-1 triumph at Cagliari.

Inter are also in Champions League duty against Slavia Prague at the San Siro on Tuesday and need to avoid a slip-up against Udinese who shocked AC Milan 1-0 in their season opener.

Torino host new boys Lecce, having also won their first two matches, as Atalanta head for Genoa before travelling to Dinamo Zagreb for their first ever Champions League game next week.

Fixtures

Saturday

Fiorentina v Juventus (1300GMT), Napoli v Sampdoria (1600), Inter Milan v Udinese (1845)

Sunday

Genoa v Atalanta (1030GMT), Brescia v Bologna, Parma v &nbsp;Cagliari, SPAL v Lazio (all 1300GMT), AS Roma v&nbsp;Sassuolo (1600), Verona v AC Milan (1845)

Monday

Torino v Lecce (1845GMT)

Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Italian league action after his four-goal spree for Portugal as Juventus head for Fiorentina on Saturday also boosted by coach Maurizio Sarri's highly-anticipated debut on the bench after a bout of pneumonia.

Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Italian league action after his four-goal spree for Portugal as Juventus head for Fiorentina on Saturday also boosted by coach Maurizio Sarri's highly-anticipated debut on the bench after a bout of pneumonia. The ex-Chelsea coach missed his first two league games with the Serie A champions against Parma and his former club Napoli. But the 60-year-old will be on the bench for the first time on Saturday as Juventus look to make it three wins this season before their Champions League opener at Atletico Madrid midweek. Ronaldo's four goals in Portugal's European qualifying win over Lithuania during the week were enough to send shivers down the spines of Fiorentina fans. The 34-year-old overtook Ireland's Robbie Keane as the all-time top scorer in Euro qualifiers, with 25 goals, and will be looking to impress further with the winner of the Best FIFA Football Awards to be named in Milan on September 23. Ronaldo will lead the Juventus attack along with Douglas Costa and Gonzalo Higuain, the Argentine also in-form on his return to Turin after a loan spell at Chelsea. "I'm back on the same team as Cris (Ronaldo) after a few years and he's even stronger, more complete and ambitious, I'm happy to play with him again," said Higuain, who played alongside Ronaldo on Real Madrid, said on Thursday. Fiorentina have also changed owners and coach with former AC Milan and Sevilla manager Vincenzo Montella overseeing two defeats in as many games on his return to the club. "Great stories are born of impossible challenges," said Montella, whose side last beat their fierce rivals in January 2017. The rivalry has been fuelled further after Juventus wrapped up their eighth consecutive title with a 2-1 win at the expense of the Tuscans last April. "I'd like to start a new chapter in Fiorentina's history by doing something special against Sarri's team," Montella told Gazzetta Dello Sport. And Montella believes that new French signing Franck Ribery can make the difference for the team. "Franck played the friendly against Perugia as if he was playing the Champions League final," he said. "He's different, as Ronaldo is different. We talk of stars who excel through sacrifice. They are wonderful examples for everyone." "It will be hard, very hard, but we're convinced that we will see a new great Fiorentina," said new Italian-American owner Rocco Commisso hoping to build a team who can add to their Serie A titles in 1956 and 1969. Ancelotti 'outrage' Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli, who are midtable, need to pick themselves up after Kalidou Koulibaly's own goal handed Juventus a 4-3 win in Turin last weekend. But they play their first match at home this season against Sampdoria with doubts over whether their San Paolo stadium will be ready in time. The Serie A outfit played their opening two league games away from home, at Fiorentina and Juventus, due to the reconstruction of the stadium. Ancelotti said he was "outraged" after seeing the state of the changing rooms midweek with their Champions League opener against Liverpool next Tuesday. The contractors have however insisted the work will be completed by Friday. Inter Milan welcome Udinese to the San Siro also looking to extend their maximum points with Antonio Conte's side ahead of both Juventus and Torino on goal difference. Inter's new star signing Romelu Lukaku will be looking to score for a third consecutive game a week after monkey chants against the Belgian tarnished their 2-1 triumph at Cagliari. Inter are also in Champions League duty against Slavia Prague at the San Siro on Tuesday and need to avoid a slip-up against Udinese who shocked AC Milan 1-0 in their season opener. Torino host new boys Lecce, having also won their first two matches, as Atalanta head for Genoa before travelling to Dinamo Zagreb for their first ever Champions League game next week. Fixtures Saturday Fiorentina v Juventus (1300GMT), Napoli v Sampdoria (1600), Inter Milan v Udinese (1845) Sunday Genoa v Atalanta (1030GMT), Brescia v Bologna, Parma v Cagliari, SPAL v Lazio (all 1300GMT), AS Roma v Sassuolo (1600), Verona v AC Milan (1845) Monday Torino v Lecce (1845GMT)

Maurizio Sarri back, Ronaldo firing on all cylinders as Juventus head for Fiorentina

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk is on the shortlist to add FIFA's best player award to his UEFA Men's Player of the Year honour.

The Dutch international denied Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for the European title last week and the same trio are in the running for the FIFA accolade to be announced in Milan on September 23.

Van Dijk starred in Liverpool's triumphant Champions League campaign.

England full-back Lucy Bronze won UEFA's women's award and is on FIFA's shortlist with the United States' World Cup-winning duo Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is up against Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino of Tottenham for best men's coach.

Phil Neville, who led England's women to a World Cup semi-final, is up for the women's coach award with the USA's Jill Ellis and Sarina Wiegman who guided European champions the Netherlands to the World Cup final.

FIFA Best shortlists

Men's player:

Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus/Portugal), Lionel Messi (Barcelona/Argentina), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool/Netherlands)

Women's player:

Lucy Bronze (Lyon/England), Alex Morgan (Orlando Pride/USA), Megan Rapinoe (Reign FC/USA)

Men's coach:

Pep Guardiola (Manchester City), Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool), Mauricio Pochettino (Tottenham)

Women's coach:

Jill Ellis (USA), Phil Neville (England), Sarina Wiegman (Netherlands)

Women's goalkeeper:

Christiane Endler (Paris St-Germain/Chile), Hedvig Lindahl (Wolfsburg/Sweden), Sari van Veenendaal (Atletico Madrid/Netherlands)

Men's goalkeeper:

Alisson (Liverpool/Brazil), Ederson (Manchester City/Brazil), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona/Germany)

Puskas award (for best goal):

Lionel Messi (Barcelona v Real Betis), Juan Quintero (River Plate v Racing Club), Daniel Zsori (Debrecen v Ferencvaros)

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk is on the shortlist to add FIFA's best player award to his UEFA Men's Player of the Year honour. The Dutch international denied Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for the European title last week and the same trio are in the running for the FIFA accolade to be announced in Milan on September 23.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk is on the shortlist to add FIFA's best player award to his UEFA Men's Player of the Year honour. The Dutch international denied Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for the European title last week and the same trio are in the running for the FIFA accolade to be announced in Milan on September 23. Van Dijk starred in Liverpool's triumphant Champions League campaign. England full-back Lucy Bronze won UEFA's women's award and is on FIFA's shortlist with the United States' World Cup-winning duo Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is up against Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino of Tottenham for best men's coach. Phil Neville, who led England's women to a World Cup semi-final, is up for the women's coach award with the USA's Jill Ellis and Sarina Wiegman who guided European champions the Netherlands to the World Cup final. FIFA Best shortlists Men's player: Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus/Portugal), Lionel Messi (Barcelona/Argentina), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool/Netherlands) Women's player: Lucy Bronze (Lyon/England), Alex Morgan (Orlando Pride/USA), Megan Rapinoe (Reign FC/USA) Men's coach: Pep Guardiola (Manchester City), Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool), Mauricio Pochettino (Tottenham) Women's coach: Jill Ellis (USA), Phil Neville (England), Sarina Wiegman (Netherlands) Women's goalkeeper: Christiane Endler (Paris St-Germain/Chile), Hedvig Lindahl (Wolfsburg/Sweden), Sari van Veenendaal (Atletico Madrid/Netherlands) Men's goalkeeper: Alisson (Liverpool/Brazil), Ederson (Manchester City/Brazil), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona/Germany) Puskas award (for best goal): Lionel Messi (Barcelona v Real Betis), Juan Quintero (River Plate v Racing Club), Daniel Zsori (Debrecen v Ferencvaros)

Van Dijk, Ronaldo and Messi shortlisted for FIFA award

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most popular rivalries in sports, was spotted in a completely different avatar during Thursday's Champions League draw in Monaco.&nbsp;

Messi and Ronaldo were seated next to each other during the ceremony and were seen sharing smiles.&nbsp;

During the ceremony, Ronaldo was asked about his relationship with Barcelona's Messi, he said he hopes the pair could share dinner.&nbsp;

"We have shared the stage 15 years. I don't know if that's happened before - the same two guys on the same stage all the time," Ronaldo said.&nbsp;

"Of course, we have a good relationship. We haven't had dinner together yet, but I hope in the future," he added.&nbsp;

"We had that battle in Spain. I pushed him and he pushed me as well. So it's good to be part of the history of football," said Juventus star.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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The perfect ingredients for some GOAT soup... 🐐🥣 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Legends?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Legends</a> <a href="https://t.co/180ZFCMteA">pic.twitter.com/180ZFCMteA</a>
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Legends of all time.. a video of a decade and half legendary!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOAT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOAT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ronaldo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ronaldo</a> <a href="https://t.co/JhjKW77O5x">pic.twitter.com/JhjKW77O5x</a>
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Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed a fierce rivalry at the pinnacle of the sport, and dominated the football landscape having swept individual and team accolades for well over a decade.&nbsp;

Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list.

Though the two lost out to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk in the men's Player of the Year award category in Monaco on Thursday.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most popular rivalries in sports, was spotted in a completely different avatar during Thursday's Champions League draw in Monaco.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most popular rivalries in sports, was spotted in a completely different avatar during Thursday's Champions League draw in Monaco. Messi and Ronaldo were seated next to each other during the ceremony and were seen sharing smiles. During the ceremony, Ronaldo was asked about his relationship with Barcelona's Messi, he said he hopes the pair could share dinner. "We have shared the stage 15 years. I don't know if that's happened before - the same two guys on the same stage all the time," Ronaldo said. "Of course, we have a good relationship. We haven't had dinner together yet, but I hope in the future," he added. "We had that battle in Spain. I pushed him and he pushed me as well. So it's good to be part of the history of football," said Juventus star. Watch the video: The perfect ingredients for some GOAT soup... 🐐🥣 #Messi #CR7 #Legends pic.twitter.com/180ZFCMteA — Mpho Letsholonyane (@M_Letsholonyane) August 30, 2019 × Legends of all time.. a video of a decade and half legendary!! #GOAT #Messi #Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/JhjKW77O5x — 👨🏽‍💻 (@BraKingsley) August 30, 2019 × Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed a fierce rivalry at the pinnacle of the sport, and dominated the football landscape having swept individual and team accolades for well over a decade. Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list. Though the two lost out to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk in the men's Player of the Year award category in Monaco on Thursday.

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Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the most popular footballer in South Korea at the moment but he has an ardent fan in India cricket captain Virat Kohli, who changes his club allegiance every time the Portuguese forward is transferred.

Lionel Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the global football landscape for a decade, each winning the Ballon d'Or five times before Croatia international midfielder Luka Modric broke their stranglehold by claiming the coveted award last year.

Kohli is arguably the best batsman of his generation across formats and became the first to win the International Cricket Council's cricketer, Test and one-day international player of the year awards together for a phenomenal 2018.

The 30-year-old rates former Real Madrid and Manchester United Ronaldo as the best he has seen.

"For me, Cristiano is above everyone else. His commitment and work ethic is unmatched. He wants it that bad – you can see it every game," Kohli told the FIFA website (www.fifa.com).

"In my opinion he has taken on more challenges and succeeded at all of them. He's the most complete player I have seen and his work ethic, as I mentioned, is unmatched.

"He inspires people. I don't think many people do that. He's also a leader and I love that. Absolutely love it. He has amazing belief too."

The Portuguese player with a huge fan following across the globe has, however, riled up his fans in South Korea who are exploring legal action to seek compensation after Ronaldo failed to play in a friendly during Juventus' pre-season tour in Seoul last week.

Kohli, a co-owner of an Indian Super League soccer franchise, enjoys cult status in cricket-crazy India and boasts 107 million followers across Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

"I like watching Portugal play now because they are maximising their resources along with having a legend in their team," Kohli added.

"They play with passion and belief, so I like watching them. Otherwise, in terms of pure ability and impact, France are very, very strong.

"I support Juventus now because of Cristiano. Simple. I support every club at which he plays. He inspires me."

French forward Kylian Mbappe, 20, is Kohli's choice to rule the football world after Ronaldo and Messi.

"His sprint in the 2018 World Cup against Argentina is hard to forget," Kohli said. "He's a beast and he will definitely be at the top of the pile for me. Absolutely top-class player."

Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the most popular footballer in South Korea at the moment but he has an ardent fan in India cricket captain Virat Kohli, who changes his club allegiance every time the Portuguese forward is transferred.

Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the most popular footballer in South Korea at the moment but he has an ardent fan in India cricket captain Virat Kohli, who changes his club allegiance every time the Portuguese forward is transferred. Lionel Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the global football landscape for a decade, each winning the Ballon d'Or five times before Croatia international midfielder Luka Modric broke their stranglehold by claiming the coveted award last year. Kohli is arguably the best batsman of his generation across formats and became the first to win the International Cricket Council's cricketer, Test and one-day international player of the year awards together for a phenomenal 2018. The 30-year-old rates former Real Madrid and Manchester United Ronaldo as the best he has seen. "For me, Cristiano is above everyone else. His commitment and work ethic is unmatched. He wants it that bad – you can see it every game," Kohli told the FIFA website (www.fifa.com). "In my opinion he has taken on more challenges and succeeded at all of them. He's the most complete player I have seen and his work ethic, as I mentioned, is unmatched. "He inspires people. I don't think many people do that. He's also a leader and I love that. Absolutely love it. He has amazing belief too." The Portuguese player with a huge fan following across the globe has, however, riled up his fans in South Korea who are exploring legal action to seek compensation after Ronaldo failed to play in a friendly during Juventus' pre-season tour in Seoul last week. Kohli, a co-owner of an Indian Super League soccer franchise, enjoys cult status in cricket-crazy India and boasts 107 million followers across Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. "I like watching Portugal play now because they are maximising their resources along with having a legend in their team," Kohli added. "They play with passion and belief, so I like watching them. Otherwise, in terms of pure ability and impact, France are very, very strong. "I support Juventus now because of Cristiano. Simple. I support every club at which he plays. He inspires me." French forward Kylian Mbappe, 20, is Kohli's choice to rule the football world after Ronaldo and Messi. "His sprint in the 2018 World Cup against Argentina is hard to forget," Kohli said. "He's a beast and he will definitely be at the top of the pile for me. Absolutely top-class player."

'Cristiano Ronaldo is above everyone else and inspires people,' says Virat Kohli

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-will-not-face-rape-charge-in-las-vegas-237843">Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo</a> received the 'Marca Legend' award on Monday for his sporting achievements throughout his career.

Ronaldo was presented with the award by Juan Ignacio Gallardo, the director of Spanish publication Marca at a ceremony in Madrid.

In a question and answer session with a group of children, Ronaldo said it was not easy to leave Real Madrid after a successful nine-year career with 'Los Blancos' and confessed one of the most difficult moments of his life was when he had to leave his native Madeira for Lisbon at the age of 11.

When a child wearing a Real Madrid jersey told him he was very sad when the striker left 'Los Blancos', Ronaldo said, "me too".

The first Marca Legend award winner, given in recognition of the excellence of sport stars, was NBA star Michael Jordan in 1997. Since then, sporting icons such as Rafael Nadal, Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Diego Maradona, Pele and Lionel Messi have also received the award.

At the end of the ceremony, Ronaldo was joined on stage by his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo received the 'Marca Legend' award on Monday for his sporting achievements throughout his career. Ronaldo was presented with the award by Juan Ignacio Gallardo, the director of Spanish publication Marca at a ceremony in Madrid.

Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo received the 'Marca Legend' award on Monday for his sporting achievements throughout his career. Ronaldo was presented with the award by Juan Ignacio Gallardo, the director of Spanish publication Marca at a ceremony in Madrid. In a question and answer session with a group of children, Ronaldo said it was not easy to leave Real Madrid after a successful nine-year career with 'Los Blancos' and confessed one of the most difficult moments of his life was when he had to leave his native Madeira for Lisbon at the age of 11. When a child wearing a Real Madrid jersey told him he was very sad when the striker left 'Los Blancos', Ronaldo said, "me too". The first Marca Legend award winner, given in recognition of the excellence of sport stars, was NBA star Michael Jordan in 1997. Since then, sporting icons such as Rafael Nadal, Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Diego Maradona, Pele and Lionel Messi have also received the award. At the end of the ceremony, Ronaldo was joined on stage by his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Cristiano Ronaldo receives award for career achievement

Portuguese football&nbsp;star Cristiano Ronaldo will face no charges in Las Vegas in connection with a 10-year-old sexual assault allegation because the case cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, prosecutors said on Monday.

Ronaldo, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest football&nbsp;players of all time and plays for the Italian club Juventus &lt;JUVE.MI&gt;, has maintained he is innocent.

Kathryn Mayorga filed a civil lawsuit in September 2018 in state court in Nevada accusing the athlete of raping her in a Las Vegas hotel penthouse suite in 2009, then paying her $375,000 in hush money.

A woman called Las Vegas police on June 13, 2009 to report that she had been sexually assaulted and police took her to the hospital for an examination, the Clark County District Attorney's Office said in a statement on Monday. She declined to identify the person who she said assaulted her.

The statement did not identify the woman, but Mayorga's civil lawsuit mirrors the allegation outlined by prosecutors.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-is-free-to-play-where-he-wants-maurizio-sarri-237740">'Cristiano Ronaldo is free to play where he wants': Maurizio Sarri</a>

Mayorga and Ronaldo reached a civil settlement in 2010 and law enforcement did not hear again from her until August&nbsp;28, 2018, when she asked police to reopen the investigation. She said Ronaldo was the person who sexually assaulted her, prosecutors said.

Las Vegas police on July 8 asked the Clark County District Attorney's Office to prosecute the case.

"Based upon a review of the information presented at this time, the allegations of sexual assault against Cristiano Ronaldo cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt," the District Attorney's Office said in a statement on Monday.

Ronaldo's attorney, Peter Christiansen, did not return calls. Attorneys for Mayorga could not be reached for comment.

Las Vegas police said in January they had formally asked Italian authorities to obtain a DNA sample from Ronaldo.

Police did not immediately respond on Monday to emails asking if they ever obtained the DNA.

The civil lawsuit, in which Mayorga sought more than $200,000 in damages, has been moved to federal court.

Mayorga and Ronaldo, according to the suit, met in Las Vegas at a nightclub before she joined a group of people going to his penthouse suite to view the Las Vegas Strip.

Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo will face no charges in Las Vegas in connection with a 10-year-old sexual assault allegation because the case cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, prosecutors said on Monday.

Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo will face no charges in Las Vegas in connection with a 10-year-old sexual assault allegation because the case cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, prosecutors said on Monday. Ronaldo, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time and plays for the Italian club Juventus <JUVE.MI>, has maintained he is innocent. Kathryn Mayorga filed a civil lawsuit in September 2018 in state court in Nevada accusing the athlete of raping her in a Las Vegas hotel penthouse suite in 2009, then paying her $375,000 in hush money. A woman called Las Vegas police on June 13, 2009 to report that she had been sexually assaulted and police took her to the hospital for an examination, the Clark County District Attorney's Office said in a statement on Monday. She declined to identify the person who she said assaulted her. The statement did not identify the woman, but Mayorga's civil lawsuit mirrors the allegation outlined by prosecutors. Also Read: 'Cristiano Ronaldo is free to play where he wants': Maurizio Sarri Mayorga and Ronaldo reached a civil settlement in 2010 and law enforcement did not hear again from her until August 28, 2018, when she asked police to reopen the investigation. She said Ronaldo was the person who sexually assaulted her, prosecutors said. Las Vegas police on July 8 asked the Clark County District Attorney's Office to prosecute the case. "Based upon a review of the information presented at this time, the allegations of sexual assault against Cristiano Ronaldo cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt," the District Attorney's Office said in a statement on Monday. Ronaldo's attorney, Peter Christiansen, did not return calls. Attorneys for Mayorga could not be reached for comment. Las Vegas police said in January they had formally asked Italian authorities to obtain a DNA sample from Ronaldo. Police did not immediately respond on Monday to emails asking if they ever obtained the DNA. The civil lawsuit, in which Mayorga sought more than $200,000 in damages, has been moved to federal court. Mayorga and Ronaldo, according to the suit, met in Las Vegas at a nightclub before she joined a group of people going to his penthouse suite to view the Las Vegas Strip.

Ronaldo will not face criminal charges over rape allegations due to insufficient evidence

Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo won't face criminal charges after a woman accused him of raping her at a Las Vegas Strip resort in 2009.

Criminal charges against Cristiano Ronaldo dropped by woman who accused him of raping her in 2009

Juventus star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-is-free-to-play-where-he-wants-maurizio-sarri-237740">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> will not face any charges over an alleged rape in Las Vegas a decade ago after US prosecutors said Monday they did not have enough evidence to proceed.

A district attorney in the state of Nevada said it would not prosecute the Portuguese soccer player because it "cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt" that a sexual assault occurred.

Kathryn Mayorga, a former model, alleges that Ronaldo raped her in a Las Vegas hotel in 2009.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward reached a financial settlement with her one year after the incident.

He has always denied allegations of sexual assault, insisting their encounter was consensual.

The Clark County District Attorney's Office said it had received a report from Mayorga -- who it identified only as "V" -- on June 13, 2009, reporting that she had been the victim of a sexual assault.

Police could not conduct "any meaningful investigation" at the time because she declined to say who assaulted her or where it occurred, the office said in a statement.

As a result, detectives were "unable to search for and impound vital forensic evidence," and video showing Ronaldo and Mayorga together was lost, it added.

Mayorga contacted police in August of last year to ask that the case be reopened, at which point she named Ronaldo as the alleged assailant.

The case was reopened "in spite of the passage of over nine-year," prosecutors said.

"Based upon a review of the information presented at this time, the allegations of sexual assault against Cristiano Ronaldo cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt," prosecutors said. "Therefore, no charges will be forthcoming."

#MeToo movement

Mayorga's attorney has stated that she agreed to an out-of-court settlement to keep her name from going public but was later inspired to speak out by the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment.

Mayorga has also said that her emotional trauma at the time did not allow her to participate in the mediation process for the financial settlement.

Neither Ronaldo's nor Mayorga's lawyers responded to AFP's request for comment on the decision to end the investigation.

The player has yet to respond on social media.

In October last year, Ronaldo said he was "an exemplary person."

"I know who I am and what I did. The truth will come out," he told France Football magazine.

"And the people who criticize me and who expose my life today, who make a song and dance about it, these people will see."

The allegations have taken a toll on his life, and in particular, on his family, he said.

In January, a Spanish court handed Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud while he was at Real Madrid.

This was immediately reduced to a fine of 365,000 euros ($410,000), on top of another penalty of 3.2 million euros ($3.6 million).

Ronaldo is widely considered one of the greatest footballers in the history of the game, having won the Champions League title five times -- once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid.

He also led Portugal to the Euro 2016 title in France.

Ronaldo, who is based in Turin, is currently on Juventus' pre-season tour of Asia.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo will not face any charges over an alleged rape in Las Vegas a decade ago after US prosecutors said Monday they did not have enough evidence to proceed.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo will not face any charges over an alleged rape in Las Vegas a decade ago after US prosecutors said Monday they did not have enough evidence to proceed. A district attorney in the state of Nevada said it would not prosecute the Portuguese soccer player because it "cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt" that a sexual assault occurred. Kathryn Mayorga, a former model, alleges that Ronaldo raped her in a Las Vegas hotel in 2009. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward reached a financial settlement with her one year after the incident. He has always denied allegations of sexual assault, insisting their encounter was consensual. The Clark County District Attorney's Office said it had received a report from Mayorga -- who it identified only as "V" -- on June 13, 2009, reporting that she had been the victim of a sexual assault. Police could not conduct "any meaningful investigation" at the time because she declined to say who assaulted her or where it occurred, the office said in a statement. As a result, detectives were "unable to search for and impound vital forensic evidence," and video showing Ronaldo and Mayorga together was lost, it added. Mayorga contacted police in August of last year to ask that the case be reopened, at which point she named Ronaldo as the alleged assailant. The case was reopened "in spite of the passage of over nine-year," prosecutors said. "Based upon a review of the information presented at this time, the allegations of sexual assault against Cristiano Ronaldo cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt," prosecutors said. "Therefore, no charges will be forthcoming." #MeToo movement Mayorga's attorney has stated that she agreed to an out-of-court settlement to keep her name from going public but was later inspired to speak out by the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment. Mayorga has also said that her emotional trauma at the time did not allow her to participate in the mediation process for the financial settlement. Neither Ronaldo's nor Mayorga's lawyers responded to AFP's request for comment on the decision to end the investigation. The player has yet to respond on social media. In October last year, Ronaldo said he was "an exemplary person." "I know who I am and what I did. The truth will come out," he told France Football magazine. "And the people who criticize me and who expose my life today, who make a song and dance about it, these people will see." The allegations have taken a toll on his life, and in particular, on his family, he said. In January, a Spanish court handed Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud while he was at Real Madrid. This was immediately reduced to a fine of 365,000 euros ($410,000), on top of another penalty of 3.2 million euros ($3.6 million). Ronaldo is widely considered one of the greatest footballers in the history of the game, having won the Champions League title five times -- once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid. He also led Portugal to the Euro 2016 title in France. Ronaldo, who is based in Turin, is currently on Juventus' pre-season tour of Asia.

Cristiano Ronaldo will not face rape charges in United States

Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player in the team and insisted that it is important for a player like him to play freely on the pitch. &nbsp;

"Cristiano can go everywhere on the pitch, he is the best player, and I think that for him it's very important to be free on the pitch," said Sarri.&nbsp;

Sarri was addressing media after 2-3 loss to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in the International Champions Cup.&nbsp;

"It was the first, only the first match. Cristiano is the best player of our team of course, so I think that we have to organise very well," Sarri added further.&nbsp;

The former Chelsea manager also hopeful of signing more players before the closing of the transfer window.&nbsp;

"We have lots of players in certain positions and less in others, but we're talking about a situation where I have seven players in Turin carrying injuries and five who have yet to return from international commitments," said Sarri.&nbsp;

"I think the club, between now and the end of the transfer window, will do something in terms of incomings, but we'll also have to do something in terms of outgoings," he added.&nbsp;

The Italian champions have already signed Matthijs de Ligt, Aaron Ramsey, Adrien Rabiot, Luca Pellegrini, Merih Demiral and Gianluigi Buffon ahead of the upcoming season and they looked interested in Manchester United's Paul Pogba.&nbsp;

Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player in the team and insisted that it is important for a player like him to play freely on the pitch.

Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player in the team and insisted that it is important for a player like him to play freely on the pitch. "Cristiano can go everywhere on the pitch, he is the best player, and I think that for him it's very important to be free on the pitch," said Sarri. Sarri was addressing media after 2-3 loss to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in the International Champions Cup. "It was the first, only the first match. Cristiano is the best player of our team of course, so I think that we have to organise very well," Sarri added further. The former Chelsea manager also hopeful of signing more players before the closing of the transfer window. "We have lots of players in certain positions and less in others, but we're talking about a situation where I have seven players in Turin carrying injuries and five who have yet to return from international commitments," said Sarri. "I think the club, between now and the end of the transfer window, will do something in terms of incomings, but we'll also have to do something in terms of outgoings," he added. The Italian champions have already signed Matthijs de Ligt, Aaron Ramsey, Adrien Rabiot, Luca Pellegrini, Merih Demiral and Gianluigi Buffon ahead of the upcoming season and they looked interested in Manchester United's Paul Pogba.

'Cristiano Ronaldo is free to play where he wants': Maurizio Sarri

Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt arrived in Turin on Tuesday to complete his transfer to Juventus.

The 19-year-old who led <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-ajax-edge-over-tottenham-in-semi-final-first-leg-214888&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjAnsLGobvjAhVEVXwKHd-wCTEQFjAEegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0HJyi1t7_Bv8Ul64BY5w9P">Ajax </a>to the Champions League semi-finals is due to undergo a medical before signing for Juventus for a reported €75 million ($85 million).

"Here he is!" Juventus announced on Twitter, with a video of the Dutch international disembarking from a private jet at Turin airport.

In a separate clip the teenager says,&nbsp;"Hello Bianconeri, this is Matthijs, I'm really happy to be here."

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Touch down! The young Dutchman has flown into Turin 🇳🇱🛬 
 
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De Ligt has been linked with many of Europe's leading clubs after his impressive play for resurgent Ajax and Holland last season.

He has played 117 games for Ajax in all competitions, scoring 13 goals, including three as the club, reached the last four of the Champions League last season, only to lose in the final seconds to Tottenham.

De Ligt scored the winner in Turin as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-ajax-eliminate-ronaldos-juve-with-scintillating-display-211027&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjAnsLGobvjAhVEVXwKHd-wCTEQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3sO3DBKqfbqAXbjn0uivq1">Ajax eliminated Juventus</a> in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

He has played 17 times for the Netherlands.

Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt arrived in Turin on Tuesday to complete his transfer to Juventus. The 19-year-old who led Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals is due to undergo a medical before signing for Juventus for a reported €75 million ($85 million).

Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt arrived in Turin on Tuesday to complete his transfer to Juventus. The 19-year-old who led Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals is due to undergo a medical before signing for Juventus for a reported €75 million ($85 million). "Here he is!" Juventus announced on Twitter, with a video of the Dutch international disembarking from a private jet at Turin airport. In a separate clip the teenager says, "Hello Bianconeri, this is Matthijs, I'm really happy to be here." Touch down! The young Dutchman has flown into Turin 🇳🇱🛬 📸➡️https://t.co/ME3UCrEmJC pic.twitter.com/Q8j7jBxbLy — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) July 16, 2019 × De Ligt has been linked with many of Europe's leading clubs after his impressive play for resurgent Ajax and Holland last season. He has played 117 games for Ajax in all competitions, scoring 13 goals, including three as the club, reached the last four of the Champions League last season, only to lose in the final seconds to Tottenham. De Ligt scored the winner in Turin as Ajax eliminated Juventus in the quarter-finals. He has played 17 times for the Netherlands.

Matthijs de Ligt arrives in Turin to complete Juventus signing

Forbes' Top 10 Highest Paid Entertainers in the World in 2019

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-haunted-by-ghosts-of-rome-in-nightmare-loss-to-liverpool-gerard-pique-221387&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7NTMqKrjAhWJ7nMBHbHxALYQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2oDybOjO8_ZKjEV_-5o--P">Barcelona's</a> Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday.

According to a May 13 decision the country's National Court rejected Pique's appeal against the 2016 sentence which required the former Spain international to pay ‎€1.5 million in tax arrears and a 600,000 euros fine.

The tribunal concluded <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-speaks-on-facing-former-manchester-united-teammate-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-209171&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjr7NTMqKrjAhWJ7nMBHbHxALYQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0qJp4Ynfeqr-KtEPU4f7f5">Pique</a> had faked the handover of his rights images to his Kerad Project company to pay less tax for 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Pique, a World Cup and European Championships winner retains the right to appeal to Spain's supreme court.&nbsp;

The verdict comes a month after his wife, Colombian musician Shakira, was questioned by a judge near the Catalan city over alleged evasion of ‎€14.5 million in taxes.

Her press team released a statement in which they said the artist was innocent.

The centre-back's former teammate at the Camp Nou <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-authorities-put-freeze-on-neymar-mansions-amid-tax-dispute-228093&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4nev1qKrjAhVb8XMBHedlAoEQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QC6QZH7keaR4NhXxf_-z7">Neymar </a>is under investigation by Spain's fiscal authorities over a bonus he received at Barca as well as his world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.

Another of Pique's fellow club squad members Lionel Messi paid a two-million-euro fine in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and received a 21-month jail term.

The prison sentence was later reduced to a further fine of ‎€252,000, equivalent to ‎€400&nbsp;per day of the original term.

A Spanish court in January handed Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud when he was at Real Madrid.

The player, who joined Italian side Juventus last year, also agreed to pay ‎€18.8 million in fines and back taxes to settle the case, according to judicial sources.

Newspaper El Mundo reported in April authorities had accused Atletico Madrid attacker <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-costa-banned-for-eight-games-for-insulting-referee-209665&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixw7KLqarjAhXQ73MBHYpFBk0QFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw18LDXzRpJ7yjCSUIpXgG2i">Diego Costa</a> of fraud totalling ‎€1.1 million related to taxes related to his image rights in 2014.&nbsp;

Barcelona's Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique will be forced to pay ‎€2.1 million ($2.36 million) to Spain's tax authorities after his conviction for rights-image fraud was confirmed, a legal source told AFP on Wednesday. According to a May 13 decision the country's National Court rejected Pique's appeal against the 2016 sentence which required the former Spain international to pay ‎€1.5 million in tax arrears and a 600,000 euros fine. The tribunal concluded Pique had faked the handover of his rights images to his Kerad Project company to pay less tax for 2008, 2009 and 2010. Pique, a World Cup and European Championships winner retains the right to appeal to Spain's supreme court. The verdict comes a month after his wife, Colombian musician Shakira, was questioned by a judge near the Catalan city over alleged evasion of ‎€14.5 million in taxes. Her press team released a statement in which they said the artist was innocent. The centre-back's former teammate at the Camp Nou Neymar is under investigation by Spain's fiscal authorities over a bonus he received at Barca as well as his world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. Another of Pique's fellow club squad members Lionel Messi paid a two-million-euro fine in 2016 in his own tax wrangle and received a 21-month jail term. The prison sentence was later reduced to a further fine of ‎€252,000, equivalent to ‎€400 per day of the original term. A Spanish court in January handed Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo a suspended two-year prison sentence for committing tax fraud when he was at Real Madrid. The player, who joined Italian side Juventus last year, also agreed to pay ‎€18.8 million in fines and back taxes to settle the case, according to judicial sources. Newspaper El Mundo reported in April authorities had accused Atletico Madrid attacker Diego Costa of fraud totalling ‎€1.1 million related to taxes related to his image rights in 2014.

Barcelona's Gerard Pique handed €2.1 million tax bill

Atletico Madrid have accused Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday that the two clubs had held talks about the signing of the France international.

In a statement, the La Liga club confirmed Bartomeu's earlier announcement that there had been a meeting, at Barca's behest, on Thursday to discuss a deal to sign World Cup winner Griezmann, who has a release clause of 120 million euros ($134.6 million) in his contract.

Atletico also said they refused a proposal from Barca that they sign the 28-year-old but delay the payment of the buy-out clause.

"Obviously our response was negative, understanding that both Barcelona and the player have disrespected Atletico Madrid and all its fans," the club said.

The statement also claims that Griezmann had told the club that he had struck a deal with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-hold-talks-with-atletico-over-antoine-griezmann-signing-233403&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ3_7A0J_jAhXn6nMBHcmnAvAQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1OlpHZWaphOXKLq2OO1kxS">Barcelona </a>in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid.

It added,&nbsp;"Atletico Madrid wants to express it's strongest condemnation of the behaviour of both parties, in particular, Barcelona, for having induced the player to break his contractual relationship with us during the moment in which the club was not only playing the Champions League tie with Juventus, but also challenging Barcelona for the La Liga title."

Griezmann - who announced in May that he would be leaving Atletico but could not reveal his destination until his release clause dropped from 200 million euros on July 1 -&nbsp;signed for the capital club from Real Sociedad in 2014 and has since scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Diego Simeone's men.

He has also netted 29 times in 70 international games for France, winning the 2018 World Cup and claiming the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 as Les Bleus lost in the final on home soil to Portugal.

Barcelona won their second straight La Liga title last season but are looking to reinforce their squad after failing again in their bid for a first Champions League triumph since 2015 -&nbsp;suffering a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/over-reliance-on-messi-or-over-confidence-what-went-wrong-for-barcelona-against-liverpool-217025&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ3_7A0J_jAhXn6nMBHcmnAvAQFjAAegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Mp1nI6KR6q_GzClr7F5cw">humiliating loss to Liverpool</a> in the semi-finals having won the first leg 3-0.

Atletico Madrid have accused Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday that the two clubs had held talks about the signing of the France international.

Atletico Madrid have accused Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann of a "lack of respect" after the Catalan giants' president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed on Friday that the two clubs had held talks about the signing of the France international. In a statement, the La Liga club confirmed Bartomeu's earlier announcement that there had been a meeting, at Barca's behest, on Thursday to discuss a deal to sign World Cup winner Griezmann, who has a release clause of 120 million euros ($134.6 million) in his contract. Atletico also said they refused a proposal from Barca that they sign the 28-year-old but delay the payment of the buy-out clause. "Obviously our response was negative, understanding that both Barcelona and the player have disrespected Atletico Madrid and all its fans," the club said. The statement also claims that Griezmann had told the club that he had struck a deal with Barcelona in March, just days before the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Juventus, which saw them dumped out by a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick after winning the first leg 2-0 in Madrid. It added, "Atletico Madrid wants to express it's strongest condemnation of the behaviour of both parties, in particular, Barcelona, for having induced the player to break his contractual relationship with us during the moment in which the club was not only playing the Champions League tie with Juventus, but also challenging Barcelona for the La Liga title." Griezmann - who announced in May that he would be leaving Atletico but could not reveal his destination until his release clause dropped from 200 million euros on July 1 - signed for the capital club from Real Sociedad in 2014 and has since scored 133 goals in 257 appearances for Diego Simeone's men. He has also netted 29 times in 70 international games for France, winning the 2018 World Cup and claiming the Golden Boot at Euro 2016 as Les Bleus lost in the final on home soil to Portugal. Barcelona won their second straight La Liga title last season but are looking to reinforce their squad after failing again in their bid for a first Champions League triumph since 2015 - suffering a humiliating loss to Liverpool in the semi-finals having won the first leg 3-0.

Atletico Madrid accuse Barcelona, Antoine Griezmann for showing 'disrespect'

Maurizio Sarri said being appointed Juventus' new head coach was the "crowning achievement" of his long career and he welcomed a return to Italy following a year in the English Premier League with Chelsea.

The Serie A champions appointed Sarri on a three-year contract earlier this week after agreeing on a compensation fee with Chelsea and the 60-year-old replaces <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-juventus-boss-massimiliano-allegri-wants-year-off-from-football-227088&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj-JaKmfjiAhXLYo8KHdnNDqQQFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1fhESwylt8rWefgb140k8e">Massimiliano Allegri</a>, who stepped down at the end of the season.

"It's the crowning achievement of a long career. At Napoli I gave my all, then I decided to have a great experience in the Premier League. Juventus are the best Italian club right now and offered me a chance to return to Italy," Sarri told reporters.

"It's been a long journey for me made up of gradual steps. I'm happy to be at the most important team in Italy and this is a further step forward after the experience at Chelsea," he said.

Sarri coached Juventus' rivals Napoli between 2015 and 2018 and nearly broke their stranglehold on the league in his final season.

The Naples side ran Juventus close in the title race before falling four points short.

"For three years I would wake up and think about how to defeat Juventus because they were a winning team," Sarri added.

"I gave 110% but we still couldn't do it. It was an experience and I will now give everything for this club," he added.

Although Sarri won the Europa League with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd9Mf0mPjiAhWBQY8KHYxKCd44ChAWMAV6BAgKEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0zfr8YfdvGAkgP5hwVCUyD">Chelsea </a>and led them to a third-place&nbsp;league finish, the fans did not take to the style of play he tried to implement, which worked wonders for him at Napoli.

While Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under the pragmatic Allegri in his final season, Sarri said he would build his team around Juventus forwards Cristiano Ronaldo and Paulo Dybala.

"You have to start with the talented players who can make the difference like Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa and build around them," Sarri said.

"When you have a player with the qualities of Dybala or Ronaldo, they can play in any role. What can change is only the interpretation of the role. Coaching Ronaldo will be yet another step forward, I'd like to help him break some new records," Sarri said.

Juventus director Fabio Paratici said hiring Sarri to replace Allegri was a straightforward decision.

"The style of play was not a driving factor in the change. Sarri was always the first choice. We tried to make him understand right away that we really wanted him," Paratici said.

"We chose Sarri because we feel he is the best manager for Juventus right now. As were (former manager Antonio) Conte and Allegri in their respective moments and they showed great quality," he added.

Maurizio Sarri said being appointed Juventus' new head coach was the "crowning achievement" of his long career and he welcomed a return to Italy following a year in the English Premier League with Chelsea.

Maurizio Sarri said being appointed Juventus' new head coach was the "crowning achievement" of his long career and he welcomed a return to Italy following a year in the English Premier League with Chelsea. The Serie A champions appointed Sarri on a three-year contract earlier this week after agreeing on a compensation fee with Chelsea and the 60-year-old replaces Massimiliano Allegri, who stepped down at the end of the season. "It's the crowning achievement of a long career. At Napoli I gave my all, then I decided to have a great experience in the Premier League. Juventus are the best Italian club right now and offered me a chance to return to Italy," Sarri told reporters. "It's been a long journey for me made up of gradual steps. I'm happy to be at the most important team in Italy and this is a further step forward after the experience at Chelsea," he said. Sarri coached Juventus' rivals Napoli between 2015 and 2018 and nearly broke their stranglehold on the league in his final season. The Naples side ran Juventus close in the title race before falling four points short. "For three years I would wake up and think about how to defeat Juventus because they were a winning team," Sarri added. "I gave 110% but we still couldn't do it. It was an experience and I will now give everything for this club," he added. Although Sarri won the Europa League with Chelsea and led them to a third-place league finish, the fans did not take to the style of play he tried to implement, which worked wonders for him at Napoli. While Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under the pragmatic Allegri in his final season, Sarri said he would build his team around Juventus forwards Cristiano Ronaldo and Paulo Dybala. "You have to start with the talented players who can make the difference like Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa and build around them," Sarri said. "When you have a player with the qualities of Dybala or Ronaldo, they can play in any role. What can change is only the interpretation of the role. Coaching Ronaldo will be yet another step forward, I'd like to help him break some new records," Sarri said. Juventus director Fabio Paratici said hiring Sarri to replace Allegri was a straightforward decision. "The style of play was not a driving factor in the change. Sarri was always the first choice. We tried to make him understand right away that we really wanted him," Paratici said. "We chose Sarri because we feel he is the best manager for Juventus right now. As were (former manager Antonio) Conte and Allegri in their respective moments and they showed great quality," he added.

Juventus appointment 'crowning achievement': Maurizio Sarri

Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi dethroned five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather as the highest paid athlete over the past year, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes on Tuesday.

Messi, who scored 36 goals while leading Barcelona to the La Liga title this year, earned $127 million between his salary and endorsements to move up one spot on the list of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricketer-virat-kohli-among-worlds-highest-paid-athletes-forbes-226362">world's 100 highest-paid athletes.</a>

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo ($109 million), Paris Saint-Germain forward <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-lawyer-for-neymars-rape-accuser-considers-dropping-case-report-225793&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjqkOKanOPiAhXimeYKHensAMkQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2yI47Q2cgoHHA1b3-ROdaW">Neymar </a>($105 million), Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez ($94 million) and Swiss tennis great Roger Federer ($93.4 million) rounded out the top five.

Mayweather, who topped the list in 2018 and four times in seven years, only had an exhibition match last December in Japan and did not crack the top 100, which is comprised of athletes from 10 different sports.

Players from the National Basketball Association led all sports with 35 players among the top 100, none higher than Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James who was ranked eighth with total earnings of $89 million.

American football was the next most-represented sport with 19 players, followed by baseball with 15, and soccer with 12.

According to Forbes, the highest-paid athletes of its list collectively earned $4 billion over the last 12 months, up 5% from last year's earnings of $3.8 billion.

Forbes also said Americans dominate the list with 62 athletes, which it credits to sky-high salaries in the major sports leagues.

The United Kingdom has five athletes, France and Spain have three, while Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Serbia and Venezuela all have two.

Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi dethroned five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather as the highest paid athlete over the past year, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes on Tuesday.

Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi dethroned five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather as the highest paid athlete over the past year, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes on Tuesday. Messi, who scored 36 goals while leading Barcelona to the La Liga title this year, earned $127 million between his salary and endorsements to move up one spot on the list of the world's 100 highest-paid athletes. Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo ($109 million), Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar ($105 million), Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez ($94 million) and Swiss tennis great Roger Federer ($93.4 million) rounded out the top five. Mayweather, who topped the list in 2018 and four times in seven years, only had an exhibition match last December in Japan and did not crack the top 100, which is comprised of athletes from 10 different sports. Players from the National Basketball Association led all sports with 35 players among the top 100, none higher than Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James who was ranked eighth with total earnings of $89 million. American football was the next most-represented sport with 19 players, followed by baseball with 15, and soccer with 12. According to Forbes, the highest-paid athletes of its list collectively earned $4 billion over the last 12 months, up 5% from last year's earnings of $3.8 billion. Forbes also said Americans dominate the list with 62 athletes, which it credits to sky-high salaries in the major sports leagues. The United Kingdom has five athletes, France and Spain have three, while Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Serbia and Venezuela all have two.

Lionel Messi tops Forbes list of 'highest-paid athletes', beats Ronaldo, Neymar

Lionel Messi beats Cristiano Ronaldo in Forbes top 100, Virat Kohli only Indian in list

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Forbes' Top 10 Highest Paid Entertainers in the World in 2019