Paulo Dybala's ferocious curled free-kick earned&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;a 1-0 home win over Atletico Madrid and top spot in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mourinho-masterstroke-pays-off-as-tottenham-spurs-hit-back-to-win-264816">Champions League</a> Group D.

The Italian champions had already booked their place for the last 16 with two games to spare but made sure of top spot with an impressive win on Tuesday.

Dybala struck two minutes into first-half injury time. His left-footed effort whipped into the net from a seemingly impossible angle leaving goalkeeper Jan Oblak with no chance.

Diego Simeone's Atletico will need to win their final group game against Lokomotiv Moscow in Madrid to be sure of advancing to the knockout rounds.

"I think Dybala scored a goal that we can't recommend," said his coach Maricio Sarri.

"The first thing a coach says when he sees someone trying to shoot from that position is 'but why the hell are you shooting from there!'&nbsp;

"He did something extraordinary, he deserved the applause," said Sarri. "It was an extraordinary piece of skill."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-back-against-favourite-enemy-atletico-264553">Cristiano Ronaldo returned</a> to the side and played for the entire match after missing last weekend's game against Atalanta and was substituted in their previous two games because of a slight knee problem.

"I haven't spoken to him yet about the pain in his knee, but he looked to be in good shape," added Sarri.

Juventus&nbsp;have 13 points from five games, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-atletico-madrid-dig-deep-to-snatch-draw-with-juventus-250480">Atletico</a> still on seven, one point ahead of third-placed Bayer Leverkusen who beat Lokomotiv 2-0.

"We had a good match against a great rival," said Simeone. "We had chances but we lacked a little efficiency.&nbsp;

"We &nbsp;didn't score ourselves, which is the most important thing in football, but we were always in the match."

Ronaldo was partnered up front by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-dybala-sinks-milan-as-angry-ronaldo-substituted-261314">Dybala</a> as in-form Gonzalo Higuain started on the bench.

Ronaldo had another injury scare in the first half, grimacing in pain and limping after colliding with the corner flag, but he played on.

Atletico had their chances in a balanced first half. Thomas Partey sent a long-range volley wide after 13 minutes.&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny got down low to smother a goal-bound Saul Niguez effort.

The 26-year-old Dybala was the standout player. &nbsp;He made the breakthrough just before the break when he curled in a superb strike from a tight angle to leave Atletico goalkeeper Oblak completely beaten.

Dybala's celebrations included a military-style salute to Turkish international teammate Merih Demiral.

"It was just a joke between us in the dressing room, there was no message in that," said the Argentine.

"It was a good goal from a tight angle, there were a lot of players on front of me," he added.

Ronaldo threatened after an hour, racing towards goal only to shoot wide. Then Federico Bernadeschi rattled the post after coming on for Welsh international Aaron Ramsey.

Dybala went off to a standing ovation and was replaced by Higuain for the last quarter of an hour.

Matthijs de Ligt, who had been a doubt after dislocating his shoulder at the weekend, pulled off a brilliant sliding tackle to steal the ball from the feet of a goal-bound Angel Correa with seven minutes to go.

Alvaro Morata missed the chance to poach a point in the final moments of the game.

Correa sent the ball across the face of goal but the former&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;striker failed to finish off on front of an empty goal.

Paulo Dybala's ferocious curled free-kick earned Juventus a 1-0 home win over Atletico Madrid and top spot in Champions League Group D. The Italian champions had already booked their place for the last 16 with two games to spare but made sure of top spot with an impressive win on Tuesday.

Paulo Dybala's ferocious curled free-kick earned Juventus a 1-0 home win over Atletico Madrid and top spot in Champions League Group D. The Italian champions had already booked their place for the last 16 with two games to spare but made sure of top spot with an impressive win on Tuesday. Dybala struck two minutes into first-half injury time. His left-footed effort whipped into the net from a seemingly impossible angle leaving goalkeeper Jan Oblak with no chance. Diego Simeone's Atletico will need to win their final group game against Lokomotiv Moscow in Madrid to be sure of advancing to the knockout rounds. "I think Dybala scored a goal that we can't recommend," said his coach Maricio Sarri. "The first thing a coach says when he sees someone trying to shoot from that position is 'but why the hell are you shooting from there!' "He did something extraordinary, he deserved the applause," said Sarri. "It was an extraordinary piece of skill." Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the side and played for the entire match after missing last weekend's game against Atalanta and was substituted in their previous two games because of a slight knee problem. "I haven't spoken to him yet about the pain in his knee, but he looked to be in good shape," added Sarri. Juventus have 13 points from five games, with Atletico still on seven, one point ahead of third-placed Bayer Leverkusen who beat Lokomotiv 2-0. "We had a good match against a great rival," said Simeone. "We had chances but we lacked a little efficiency. "We didn't score ourselves, which is the most important thing in football, but we were always in the match." Ronaldo was partnered up front by Dybala as in-form Gonzalo Higuain started on the bench. Ronaldo had another injury scare in the first half, grimacing in pain and limping after colliding with the corner flag, but he played on. Atletico had their chances in a balanced first half. Thomas Partey sent a long-range volley wide after 13 minutes. Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny got down low to smother a goal-bound Saul Niguez effort. The 26-year-old Dybala was the standout player. He made the breakthrough just before the break when he curled in a superb strike from a tight angle to leave Atletico goalkeeper Oblak completely beaten. Dybala's celebrations included a military-style salute to Turkish international teammate Merih Demiral. "It was just a joke between us in the dressing room, there was no message in that," said the Argentine. "It was a good goal from a tight angle, there were a lot of players on front of me," he added. Ronaldo threatened after an hour, racing towards goal only to shoot wide. Then Federico Bernadeschi rattled the post after coming on for Welsh international Aaron Ramsey. Dybala went off to a standing ovation and was replaced by Higuain for the last quarter of an hour. Matthijs de Ligt, who had been a doubt after dislocating his shoulder at the weekend, pulled off a brilliant sliding tackle to steal the ball from the feet of a goal-bound Angel Correa with seven minutes to go. Alvaro Morata missed the chance to poach a point in the final moments of the game. Correa sent the ball across the face of goal but the former Juventus striker failed to finish off on front of an empty goal.

Champions League: Dybala stunner seals top-spot for Juventus but Atletico must wait

Juventus star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/soccer-ronaldo-moves-onto-99-as-portugal-qualify-for-euro-2020-262792">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> warned he was 'back' and ready for Tuesday's Champions League meeting with old rivals Atletico Madrid in Turin.

Coach Maurizio Sarri said the 34-year-old Portugal international's fitness still had to be assessed before the Group D clash as he battles a knee problem.

But the 34-year-old showed his eagerness to play by posting a photo on Twitter with the caption: "I'm back," followed by an emoji of a flexed bicep.

Ronaldo has a long history with the Spanish side going back to his nine years with city rivals Real Madrid.

The five-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-dominates-ballon-dor-shortlist-with-seven-names-257421">Ballon d'Or</a> winner scored 22 goals against Atletico for Real, including in the 2014 Champions League final triumph. He also hit the winning spot-kick as they were defeated in the final again two years later.

In last season's Champions League, the Spanish were 2-0 winners in the first leg of their last 16 tie, but a Ronaldo hat-trick in Turin in March denied them a quarter-final berth.

"I have five Champions Leagues, these guys zero," Ronaldo had declared after the defeat in Madrid, holding up five fingers to the home fans throughout the game.

This season Ronaldo has scored just once in the Champions League and was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-dybala-sinks-milan-as-angry-ronaldo-substituted-261314">furious after being substituted</a> by coach Maurizio Sarri in their last game against Lokomotiv Moscow, also being hauled off before the hour in the following game against AC Milan.

In characteristic defiant style he hit back with four goals to qualify holders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/soccer-ronaldo-moves-onto-99-as-portugal-qualify-for-euro-2020-262792">Portugal for Euro 2020.</a>

But he was rested for Saturday's Serie A game against Atalanta which Juventus won 2-1 thanks to a Gonzalo Higuain double to stay top of the Italian league.

"Cristiano trained with his teammates yesterday (Sunday)," Sarri told a press conference at the Juventus Stadium.&nbsp;

"It seems that his condition is improving but we still have to evaluate between today and tomorrow.

"The positive thing he was able to play throughout the training session with his teammates."

Atletico coach Diego Simeone knows what to expect from a player who holds the record of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League </a>goals with 127.

"Ronaldo is a champion, we have always suffered a lot against him. He is number one, but I don't think it's Ronaldo against Atletico because Juve is a great team.&nbsp;

"I have no doubt, Juventus will be the protagonist again this year."

Atletico midfielder Koke added: "We consider the team as a whole, not just Ronaldo.

"Ronaldo had scored a lot of goals against us, we'll see if he will play one of his typical matches tomorrow."

Sarri said he had "a good relationship with Ronaldo" despite the player's harsh words in his direction at being substituted.

"If a player who has won so much is angry about being substituted, it means he still has a lot of motivation, and this is something positive," said the former Chelsea and Napoli coach.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Juventus</a> are already through to the last 16 and want to finish top of their group with second-placed Atletico needing a win to guarantee their place.

The Italian champions will be without defender Matthijs de Ligt, with a dislocated shoulder, with forward Federico Bernardeschi, who bruised his chest, in doubt.

Atletico's Portugal forward Joao Felix is also fighting for fitness.

But Sarri conceded he was spoilt for choice up front between Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and Higuain.

"We have three very strong strikers for just two roles, I think it is an ideal situation," continued the Juventus coach.

"Playing Dybala, Higuain and Cristiano all together is difficult because of their characteristics, but all three know how to play really well and are comfortable with each other."&nbsp;

Higuain, who has scored five goals this season, said he was not trying to take Ronaldo's throne.

"I don't have to steal anything from anyone," said the 31-year-old, who played alongside Ronaldo at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Real Madrid</a>.&nbsp;

"We know who Ronaldo is, a winner. I try to help the team win, we are all important and crucial, both those who play and those who don't play.

"In the long run, this is what leads a team to winning things."

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo warned he was 'back' and ready for Tuesday's Champions League meeting with old rivals Atletico Madrid in Turin. Coach Maurizio Sarri said the 34-year-old Portugal international's fitness still had to be assessed before the Group D clash as he battles a knee problem.

Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo warned he was 'back' and ready for Tuesday's Champions League meeting with old rivals Atletico Madrid in Turin. Coach Maurizio Sarri said the 34-year-old Portugal international's fitness still had to be assessed before the Group D clash as he battles a knee problem. But the 34-year-old showed his eagerness to play by posting a photo on Twitter with the caption: "I'm back," followed by an emoji of a flexed bicep. Ronaldo has a long history with the Spanish side going back to his nine years with city rivals Real Madrid. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 22 goals against Atletico for Real, including in the 2014 Champions League final triumph. He also hit the winning spot-kick as they were defeated in the final again two years later. In last season's Champions League, the Spanish were 2-0 winners in the first leg of their last 16 tie, but a Ronaldo hat-trick in Turin in March denied them a quarter-final berth. "I have five Champions Leagues, these guys zero," Ronaldo had declared after the defeat in Madrid, holding up five fingers to the home fans throughout the game. This season Ronaldo has scored just once in the Champions League and was furious after being substituted by coach Maurizio Sarri in their last game against Lokomotiv Moscow, also being hauled off before the hour in the following game against AC Milan. In characteristic defiant style he hit back with four goals to qualify holders Portugal for Euro 2020. But he was rested for Saturday's Serie A game against Atalanta which Juventus won 2-1 thanks to a Gonzalo Higuain double to stay top of the Italian league. "Cristiano trained with his teammates yesterday (Sunday)," Sarri told a press conference at the Juventus Stadium. "It seems that his condition is improving but we still have to evaluate between today and tomorrow. "The positive thing he was able to play throughout the training session with his teammates." Atletico coach Diego Simeone knows what to expect from a player who holds the record of Champions League goals with 127. "Ronaldo is a champion, we have always suffered a lot against him. He is number one, but I don't think it's Ronaldo against Atletico because Juve is a great team. "I have no doubt, Juventus will be the protagonist again this year." Atletico midfielder Koke added: "We consider the team as a whole, not just Ronaldo. "Ronaldo had scored a lot of goals against us, we'll see if he will play one of his typical matches tomorrow." Sarri said he had "a good relationship with Ronaldo" despite the player's harsh words in his direction at being substituted. "If a player who has won so much is angry about being substituted, it means he still has a lot of motivation, and this is something positive," said the former Chelsea and Napoli coach. Juventus are already through to the last 16 and want to finish top of their group with second-placed Atletico needing a win to guarantee their place. The Italian champions will be without defender Matthijs de Ligt, with a dislocated shoulder, with forward Federico Bernardeschi, who bruised his chest, in doubt. Atletico's Portugal forward Joao Felix is also fighting for fitness. But Sarri conceded he was spoilt for choice up front between Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and Higuain. "We have three very strong strikers for just two roles, I think it is an ideal situation," continued the Juventus coach. "Playing Dybala, Higuain and Cristiano all together is difficult because of their characteristics, but all three know how to play really well and are comfortable with each other." Higuain, who has scored five goals this season, said he was not trying to take Ronaldo's throne. "I don't have to steal anything from anyone," said the 31-year-old, who played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid. "We know who Ronaldo is, a winner. I try to help the team win, we are all important and crucial, both those who play and those who don't play. "In the long run, this is what leads a team to winning things."

Champions League: I'm back, warns Ronaldo as Juventus face Atletico Madrid

Sweden star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-says-mls-chief-260667">Zlatan Ibrahimovic</a> has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday.

The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last week following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported that the former seven-time European champions have now made contact with the player's agent Mino Raiola.

The US-owned club want the former Swedish international for six months and are prepared to pay him six million euros ($6.6 million) if he remains for 18 months in total, Gazzetta claimed.

Milan finished fifth last season, missing out on a return to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League</a> football by just a point to city rivals Inter.

They have had a poor start to this campaign and are 14th after 12 games before they host last year's runners-up Napoli on Saturday in the San Siro.

Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances.

He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-dybala-sinks-milan-as-angry-ronaldo-substituted-261314">Juventus</a>, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday.

Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday. The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last week following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs. Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported that the former seven-time European champions have now made contact with the player's agent Mino Raiola. The US-owned club want the former Swedish international for six months and are prepared to pay him six million euros ($6.6 million) if he remains for 18 months in total, Gazzetta claimed. Milan finished fifth last season, missing out on a return to Champions League football by just a point to city rivals Inter. They have had a poor start to this campaign and are 14th after 12 games before they host last year's runners-up Napoli on Saturday in the San Siro. Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances. He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with Juventus, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

AC Milan offer Ibrahimovic six-month deal - Reports

Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness and attitude has come under the spotlight after he reacted angrily to being substituted during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-dybala-sinks-milan-as-angry-ronaldo-substituted-261314">Juventus' win over AC Milan</a> and coach Maurizio Sarri said the 34-year-old had been nursing a knee injury for some time.

Ronaldo now faces two matches with Portugal where he will want to help the European champions guarantee their place at Euro 2020 and close in on the 100-goal milestone for his country.

He currently has 95 goals and, given his prolific record, it is not inconceivable that he could reach 100 against Lithuania and Luxemburg,&nbsp;if he can play.

Ronaldo gave Sarri a dirty look and walked straight down the tunnel after being substituted in the 55th minute on Sunday, prompting widespread criticism led by former Real Madrid, Juventus and England coach Fabio Capello.

"Ronaldo hasn't dribbled past a player in three years and I remember when he could leave them on the floor," Capello told Sky Sport Italia. "Sarri was right to take him off. The fact that he did not go and sit on the bench was not a good image."

Sarri said the player had taken a knock on the knee in training a month ago was still feeling the effects.

"When he trains with high intensity and plays matches, he feels some pain. He can't train too hard and has difficulty when he kicks the ball."

Sarri added that Ronaldo was also suffering problems with his thigh and calf, raising questions as to whether the striker was taking unnecessary risks by playing on rather than taking some time out to regain full fitness.

Ronaldo's career has been remarkably injury-free and his longest layoff was in 2008 when a fractured knee cap sidelined him for 94 days, during which he missed 11 games.

An ankle injury cost him nine games in 2009 and he suffered another knee injury during the Euro 2016 final for Portugal against France.

He was also troubled by tendinosis around his left knee in the run-up to the 2014 World Cup. He played in all of Portugal's games but later admitted that he had taken a risk by playing through it.

According to the specialist website Transfermarkt, he has only missed 53 games in his entire career due to injury.

Sarri described Ronaldo's angry reaction to being substituted as normal for a top player, but he will probably be more than happy to let Portugal coach Fernando Santos deal with the problem for the next week.

Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness and attitude has come under the spotlight after he reacted angrily to being substituted during Juventus' win over AC Milan and coach Maurizio Sarri said the 34-year-old had been nursing a knee injury for some time.

Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness and attitude has come under the spotlight after he reacted angrily to being substituted during Juventus' win over AC Milan and coach Maurizio Sarri said the 34-year-old had been nursing a knee injury for some time. Ronaldo now faces two matches with Portugal where he will want to help the European champions guarantee their place at Euro 2020 and close in on the 100-goal milestone for his country. He currently has 95 goals and, given his prolific record, it is not inconceivable that he could reach 100 against Lithuania and Luxemburg, if he can play. Ronaldo gave Sarri a dirty look and walked straight down the tunnel after being substituted in the 55th minute on Sunday, prompting widespread criticism led by former Real Madrid, Juventus and England coach Fabio Capello. "Ronaldo hasn't dribbled past a player in three years and I remember when he could leave them on the floor," Capello told Sky Sport Italia. "Sarri was right to take him off. The fact that he did not go and sit on the bench was not a good image." Sarri said the player had taken a knock on the knee in training a month ago was still feeling the effects. "When he trains with high intensity and plays matches, he feels some pain. He can't train too hard and has difficulty when he kicks the ball." Sarri added that Ronaldo was also suffering problems with his thigh and calf, raising questions as to whether the striker was taking unnecessary risks by playing on rather than taking some time out to regain full fitness. Ronaldo's career has been remarkably injury-free and his longest layoff was in 2008 when a fractured knee cap sidelined him for 94 days, during which he missed 11 games. An ankle injury cost him nine games in 2009 and he suffered another knee injury during the Euro 2016 final for Portugal against France. He was also troubled by tendinosis around his left knee in the run-up to the 2014 World Cup. He played in all of Portugal's games but later admitted that he had taken a risk by playing through it. According to the specialist website Transfermarkt, he has only missed 53 games in his entire career due to injury. Sarri described Ronaldo's angry reaction to being substituted as normal for a top player, but he will probably be more than happy to let Portugal coach Fernando Santos deal with the problem for the next week.

Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness and attitude both under the spotlight

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

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

Cristiano Ronaldo hits milestone with 700th career goal

Atletico Madrid produced a typically spirited comeback from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Juventus in a thrilling finale to Wednesday's heavyweight Champions League Group D opener.

Mexico midfielder Hector Herrera levelled in the 90th minute with a thumping header from a corner after defender Stefan Savic had pulled a goal back for the Spaniards in the 70th with a header from close range following a free-kick.

The Spaniards were the brighter side in the first half but Juve went ahead in the 48th minute when Juan Cuadrado sent an unstoppable curling shot into the top corner after a break engineered by a punt forward from defender Leonardo Bonucci.

The Italian champions doubled their lead in the 65th minute following another quick counter as midfielder Blaise Matuidi headed home a cross from Alex Sandro.

But with bullish coach Diego Simeone motivating them from the sidelines and a typically boisterous Wanda Metropolitano crowd roaring them on, Atletico refused to give in.

Atletico and Juve have a point each while Lokomotiv Moscow top Group D after beating Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 away from home.

"This game will do us a lot of good for the rest of the season, as it makes us believe in the character of the team," Simeone told reporters.

"We started well then they hit us twice and we were out of the game but we never caved in."

Juve's Bonucci did not hide his disappointment at the fact his side could not see out the victory.

"It’s a real shame to concede two goals from set-plays. We had a great performance, but we’ve got to be more focussed, because this has happened too many times now," he said.

"Everyone has to be more concentrated. A side like ours cannot keep conceding this many goals from set plays."

Savic's scrappy goal galvanised Atletico and moments later Spain forward Vitolo forced Juve keeper Wojciech Szczesny to make an acrobatic save.

Atletico was denied a penalty when the ball hit the arm of Bonucci, with Diego Costa earning a yellow card for his loud protests at the decision.

Instant hero

Substitute Herrera made himself an instant hero 14 minutes into his competitive debut for the club by escaping his marker and heading home Kieran Trippier's corner to spark jubilant scenes in the stands and around the Atletico dugout.

"This team is renowned for suffering and fighting until the end. This result tastes better than most draws, of course, we wanted to win but a draw is good given how tough Juventus are," said Herrera, who joined Atleti from Porto in the close season.

"A draw isn't bad at all given the team we were up against and we were better than them in many moments of the game. I'm so happy to have made my debut and to help the team."

Juve forward Cristiano Ronaldo had an unusually quiet game after scoring a hat-trick against Atletico in last year's competition, although he came within inches of grabbing a last-gasp winner when he sent a shot just past the far post.

Visiting coach Maurizio Sarri was left with a bittersweet feeling in his first Champions League match in charge of Juve.

"I feel good about the character we showed, the performance we gave and the two goals, but I feel a sense of anger because we had the game under control and we let it slip," he said.

Atletico Madrid produced a typically spirited comeback from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Juventus in a thrilling finale to Wednesday's heavyweight Champions League Group D opener.

Atletico Madrid produced a typically spirited comeback from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Juventus in a thrilling finale to Wednesday's heavyweight Champions League Group D opener. Mexico midfielder Hector Herrera levelled in the 90th minute with a thumping header from a corner after defender Stefan Savic had pulled a goal back for the Spaniards in the 70th with a header from close range following a free-kick. The Spaniards were the brighter side in the first half but Juve went ahead in the 48th minute when Juan Cuadrado sent an unstoppable curling shot into the top corner after a break engineered by a punt forward from defender Leonardo Bonucci. The Italian champions doubled their lead in the 65th minute following another quick counter as midfielder Blaise Matuidi headed home a cross from Alex Sandro. But with bullish coach Diego Simeone motivating them from the sidelines and a typically boisterous Wanda Metropolitano crowd roaring them on, Atletico refused to give in. Atletico and Juve have a point each while Lokomotiv Moscow top Group D after beating Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 away from home. "This game will do us a lot of good for the rest of the season, as it makes us believe in the character of the team," Simeone told reporters. "We started well then they hit us twice and we were out of the game but we never caved in." Juve's Bonucci did not hide his disappointment at the fact his side could not see out the victory. "It’s a real shame to concede two goals from set-plays. We had a great performance, but we’ve got to be more focussed, because this has happened too many times now," he said. "Everyone has to be more concentrated. A side like ours cannot keep conceding this many goals from set plays." Savic's scrappy goal galvanised Atletico and moments later Spain forward Vitolo forced Juve keeper Wojciech Szczesny to make an acrobatic save. Atletico was denied a penalty when the ball hit the arm of Bonucci, with Diego Costa earning a yellow card for his loud protests at the decision. Instant hero Substitute Herrera made himself an instant hero 14 minutes into his competitive debut for the club by escaping his marker and heading home Kieran Trippier's corner to spark jubilant scenes in the stands and around the Atletico dugout. "This team is renowned for suffering and fighting until the end. This result tastes better than most draws, of course, we wanted to win but a draw is good given how tough Juventus are," said Herrera, who joined Atleti from Porto in the close season. "A draw isn't bad at all given the team we were up against and we were better than them in many moments of the game. I'm so happy to have made my debut and to help the team." Juve forward Cristiano Ronaldo had an unusually quiet game after scoring a hat-trick against Atletico in last year's competition, although he came within inches of grabbing a last-gasp winner when he sent a shot just past the far post. Visiting coach Maurizio Sarri was left with a bittersweet feeling in his first Champions League match in charge of Juve. "I feel good about the character we showed, the performance we gave and the two goals, but I feel a sense of anger because we had the game under control and we let it slip," he said.

Champions League: Atletico Madrid dig deep to snatch draw with Juventus

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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/raheem-sterling-not-on-same-level-as-lionel-messi-cristiano-ronaldo-says-pep-guardiola-249589">Messi </a>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."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/maurizio-sarri-back-ronaldo-firing-on-all-cylinders-as-juventus-head-for-fiorentina-249366">Ronaldo</a>, 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."

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

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

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>
— Mpho Letsholonyane (@M_Letsholonyane) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Letsholonyane/status/1167306611024515072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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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>
— 👨🏽‍💻 (@BraKingsley) <a href="https://twitter.com/BraKingsley/status/1167233496844312581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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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.

Cristiano Ronaldo-Lionel Messi's bromance lights up UEFA awards

Five players to watch in Serie A

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-draw-first-blood-against-liverpool-with-community-shield-win-240682">Manchester&nbsp;City</a>&nbsp;signed Portuguese international right-back Joao&nbsp;Cancelo&nbsp;from&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;on Wednesday with Brazilian full-back&nbsp;Danilo&nbsp;heading in the other direction to join the Italian champions. 
City will pay a net fee of 28 million euros ($31 million) with&nbsp;Cancelo's move valued at 65 million euros and&nbsp;Danilocosting 37 million euros.

"City&nbsp;are a fantastic club, with a brilliant manager and I am delighted to be here,” said&nbsp;Cancelo, who signed a six-year contract. 
"Everything about them has impressed me, from the facilities to their style of play. 
"I am always looking to develop my game and win trophies and I believe I can do that here, so now I'm looking forward to the new season and testing myself in the Premier League."

Cancelo&nbsp;won one Serie A title with&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;after a 40 million euro move from Valencia last year.

"Joao is a fine player and an excellent attacking full-back who will provide us with a real threat on the right-hand side," said&nbsp;City&nbsp;director of football Txiki Begiristain.

"He fits the profile of player we want here at Manchester&nbsp;City. His best years are ahead of him, he's technically proficient and has the physical attributes we desire."

Danilo&nbsp;was part of the&nbsp;City&nbsp;squad that has won five<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-values-premier-league-title-above-gambling-all-on-champions-league-240563"> domestic trophies in the past two seasons </a>but has played second fiddle to Kyle Walker at right back.

"It's been a pleasure to be part of the success&nbsp;City&nbsp;have enjoyed in my time here," said&nbsp;Danilo, who has signed a five-year contract with&nbsp;Juventus. 
"The club has been fantastic with me from day one and I will always be grateful. 
"The Premier League title wins will stay with me forever and I will always have&nbsp;City&nbsp;in my heart."

Manchester City signed Portuguese international right-back Joao Cancelo from Juventus on Wednesday with Brazilian full-back Danilo heading in the other direction to join the Italian champions.

Manchester City signed Portuguese international right-back Joao Cancelo from Juventus on Wednesday with Brazilian full-back Danilo heading in the other direction to join the Italian champions. City will pay a net fee of 28 million euros ($31 million) with Cancelo's move valued at 65 million euros and Danilocosting 37 million euros. "City are a fantastic club, with a brilliant manager and I am delighted to be here,” said Cancelo, who signed a six-year contract. "Everything about them has impressed me, from the facilities to their style of play. "I am always looking to develop my game and win trophies and I believe I can do that here, so now I'm looking forward to the new season and testing myself in the Premier League." Cancelo won one Serie A title with Juventus after a 40 million euro move from Valencia last year. "Joao is a fine player and an excellent attacking full-back who will provide us with a real threat on the right-hand side," said City director of football Txiki Begiristain. "He fits the profile of player we want here at Manchester City. His best years are ahead of him, he's technically proficient and has the physical attributes we desire." Danilo was part of the City squad that has won five domestic trophies in the past two seasons but has played second fiddle to Kyle Walker at right back. "It's been a pleasure to be part of the success City have enjoyed in my time here," said Danilo, who has signed a five-year contract with Juventus. "The club has been fantastic with me from day one and I will always be grateful. "The Premier League title wins will stay with me forever and I will always have City in my heart."

Man City land Cancelo as Danilo joins Juventus

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

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

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

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane scored a stunning goal in the stoppage time to secure a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-kane-strikes-as-tottenham-sink-juventus-in-singapore-237495">3-2 win over Juventus</a> in an enthralling International Champions Cup contest in Singapore on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the match, Tottenham opened the goal through&nbsp;Erik Lamela's strike in the 31st minute but Juventus' Gonzalo Higuain levelled the score in the 56th minute.&nbsp;

The Italian giants went ahead after Cristiano Ronaldo netted on the hour mark but Lucas Moura scored the equaliser in the 65th minute.&nbsp;

Kane scored the winner in the 93rd minute lofting a shot from the centre&nbsp;circle that cleared over the head of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, landing it into the net.&nbsp;

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said the goal was "unbelievable". He said, "I think it was a great, great goal, unbelievable goal for Harry (Kane), I think it's good for him, to start the pre-season by scoring."

"To compete in our best way and win is always better than don't win, and of course, I think we are happy with the performance. But the most important is we are happy that the players finished in a good condition to train tomorrow, to train after tomorrow and build step by step our fitness," Pochettino added.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Good to be back 😉⚽ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/0IyYufatit">pic.twitter.com/0IyYufatit</a>
— Harry Kane (@HKane) <a href="https://twitter.com/HKane/status/1152943509982318593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The International Champions Cup features 12 teams playing friendly matches in venues in North America, Europe and Asia.&nbsp;

Next Tottenham will face&nbsp;Manchester United in Shanghai and Juventus travel to Nanjing, China next to face fellow Serie A side Inter Milan.&nbsp;

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane scored a stunning goal in the stoppage time to secure a 3-2 win over Juventus in an enthralling International Champions Cup contest in Singapore on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane scored a stunning goal in the stoppage time to secure a 3-2 win over Juventus in an enthralling International Champions Cup contest in Singapore on Sunday. During the match, Tottenham opened the goal through Erik Lamela's strike in the 31st minute but Juventus' Gonzalo Higuain levelled the score in the 56th minute. The Italian giants went ahead after Cristiano Ronaldo netted on the hour mark but Lucas Moura scored the equaliser in the 65th minute. Kane scored the winner in the 93rd minute lofting a shot from the centre circle that cleared over the head of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, landing it into the net. Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said the goal was "unbelievable". He said, "I think it was a great, great goal, unbelievable goal for Harry (Kane), I think it's good for him, to start the pre-season by scoring." "To compete in our best way and win is always better than don't win, and of course, I think we are happy with the performance. But the most important is we are happy that the players finished in a good condition to train tomorrow, to train after tomorrow and build step by step our fitness," Pochettino added. Watch the video: Good to be back 😉⚽ #COYS pic.twitter.com/0IyYufatit — Harry Kane (@HKane) July 21, 2019 × The International Champions Cup features 12 teams playing friendly matches in venues in North America, Europe and Asia. Next Tottenham will face Manchester United in Shanghai and Juventus travel to Nanjing, China next to face fellow Serie A side Inter Milan.

Watch: Harry Kane's 93rd-minute wonder goal against Juventus

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane scored what he called "one of the best goals" of his career to beat Italian champions Juventus 3-2 in an enthralling International Champions Cup contest in Singapore on Sunday.

Kane capitalised after teammate Lucas Moura nicked the ball deep into injury time, allowing the striker to thump it from the halfway line high into the steamy night and over the head of Juventus' back-pedalling goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

His goal completed a comeback after Cristiano Ronaldo put Juventus 2-1 in front.

"It is probably one of the best goals of my career," Kane said.

"I could see in parts of the game the keeper was off the line. I thought if I get a chance to shoot, I'll shoot and thankfully it went in."

Spurs midfielder Erik Lamela scored the only goal of the first half, striking from close range in the 31st minute after Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon palmed a shot from teenage striker Troy Parrott into his path.

In a more lively second half, Juventus substitute Gonzalo Higuain equalised in the 56th minute after some neat interplay on the edge of the box gave him the space to place it low into the right corner.

Then up stepped crowd-favourite Ronaldo.

Defender Mattia De Sciglio cut the ball back to the Portuguese who drilled it across the keeper in his last touch before he was replaced.

But Juventus' lead did not last long. In the 65th minute, Moura got on the end of a pinpoint pass from Tanguy Ndombele, the French midfielder who joined Spurs for a club record fee earlier this month.

In the closing stages, Higuain had a decent chance to break the deadlock. But it was Kane's wonder-goal - which came after Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot lost the ball - which sealed the win in the dying seconds.

"It was a great goal. Unbelievable from Harry. It is good for him to set off pre-season with scoring," said Spurs coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The International Champions Cup features 12 teams playing friendly matches in venues in North America, Europe and Asia.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane scored what he called "one of the best goals" of his career to beat Italian champions Juventus 3-2 in an enthralling International Champions Cup contest in Singapore on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane scored what he called "one of the best goals" of his career to beat Italian champions Juventus 3-2 in an enthralling International Champions Cup contest in Singapore on Sunday. Kane capitalised after teammate Lucas Moura nicked the ball deep into injury time, allowing the striker to thump it from the halfway line high into the steamy night and over the head of Juventus' back-pedalling goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. His goal completed a comeback after Cristiano Ronaldo put Juventus 2-1 in front. "It is probably one of the best goals of my career," Kane said. "I could see in parts of the game the keeper was off the line. I thought if I get a chance to shoot, I'll shoot and thankfully it went in." Spurs midfielder Erik Lamela scored the only goal of the first half, striking from close range in the 31st minute after Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon palmed a shot from teenage striker Troy Parrott into his path. In a more lively second half, Juventus substitute Gonzalo Higuain equalised in the 56th minute after some neat interplay on the edge of the box gave him the space to place it low into the right corner. Then up stepped crowd-favourite Ronaldo. Defender Mattia De Sciglio cut the ball back to the Portuguese who drilled it across the keeper in his last touch before he was replaced. But Juventus' lead did not last long. In the 65th minute, Moura got on the end of a pinpoint pass from Tanguy Ndombele, the French midfielder who joined Spurs for a club record fee earlier this month. In the closing stages, Higuain had a decent chance to break the deadlock. But it was Kane's wonder-goal - which came after Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot lost the ball - which sealed the win in the dying seconds. "It was a great goal. Unbelievable from Harry. It is good for him to set off pre-season with scoring," said Spurs coach Mauricio Pochettino. The International Champions Cup features 12 teams playing friendly matches in venues in North America, Europe and Asia.

Harry Kane strikes as Tottenham sink Juventus in Singapore

Juventus <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/matthijs-de-ligt-arrives-in-turin-to-complete-juventus-signing-236563">new signing Matthijs de Ligt</a> met fans and addressed media at his official unveiling on Friday. While speaking to media, de Ligt said he had "heard a lot of good stories" about Juve's new manager Maurizio Sarri.

"I spoke to him (Sarri) on the phone, really short. Just getting to know each other and nothing more," de Ligt told reporters in his first news conference as a Juve player.

"And he&nbsp;is one of the reasons why I wanted to come to Juventus, because I heard a lot of good stories about him, the way he plays, the philosophy he has, the attacking football, defending lines. How he prepared them. So, obviously, that was a big reason to come here," he added.

De Ligt, who captained Ajax squad that reached the Champions League semi-finals last season, joined Juventus from Ajax for $84 million.&nbsp;

The move has made the Dutch international centre-back one of the most expensive defenders in the world.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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🌑🌒🌓🌔🌕 TURN DE LIGT ON, MATTHIJS! 💡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TURNDELIGTON?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TURNDELIGTON</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LiveAhead?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LiveAhead</a> <a href="https://t.co/spkCCpyylx">pic.twitter.com/spkCCpyylx</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1152171224883240964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During the presser, the 19-year-old seemed excited about making a name for himself in Serie A.&nbsp;

"It is the country that loves defending the most in the world. If you talk about Italian players, for me the most common names that come up are the defenders," he said.&nbsp;

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach in June in their bid to win the European silverware.

Juventus new signing Matthijs de Ligt met fans and addressed media at his official unveiling on Friday. While speaking to media, de Ligt said he had "heard a lot of good stories" about Juve's new manager Maurizio Sarri.

Juventus new signing Matthijs de Ligt met fans and addressed media at his official unveiling on Friday. While speaking to media, de Ligt said he had "heard a lot of good stories" about Juve's new manager Maurizio Sarri. "I spoke to him (Sarri) on the phone, really short. Just getting to know each other and nothing more," de Ligt told reporters in his first news conference as a Juve player. "And he is one of the reasons why I wanted to come to Juventus, because I heard a lot of good stories about him, the way he plays, the philosophy he has, the attacking football, defending lines. How he prepared them. So, obviously, that was a big reason to come here," he added. De Ligt, who captained Ajax squad that reached the Champions League semi-finals last season, joined Juventus from Ajax for $84 million. The move has made the Dutch international centre-back one of the most expensive defenders in the world. 🌑🌒🌓🌔🌕 TURN DE LIGT ON, MATTHIJS! 💡#TURNDELIGTON #LiveAhead pic.twitter.com/spkCCpyylx — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) July 19, 2019 × During the presser, the 19-year-old seemed excited about making a name for himself in Serie A. "It is the country that loves defending the most in the world. If you talk about Italian players, for me the most common names that come up are the defenders," he said. Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach in June in their bid to win the European silverware.

Heard a lot of good stories about Maurizio Sarri, says Juventus new signing Matthijs de Ligt

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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— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1151233479939637249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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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

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eager to build his team around midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-must-put-his-head-down-focus-on-manchester-uniteds-pre-season-bryan-robson-236301">Paul Pogba</a> despite media speculation linking the French World Cup winner with a move away from Old Trafford ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Pogba's agent recently said&nbsp;that the 26-year-old intends to leave the club, while the player said in Tokyo last month he could seek a new challenge elsewhere amid reports linking him to Juventus and Real Madrid.

"Paul is a fantastic player, a fantastic human being and has always been a great professional," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-dismisses-paul-pogba-leaving-manchester-united-speculation-as-agents-talking-234669&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgMH-prvjAhXCNY8KHXkPDQIQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0u9i9rN45W1sBWKUm2ZCiA">Solskjaer </a>told reporters in Perth.

"I said (previously), 'if he's in your squad, you'd build your team around him'... I haven't changed that much since then, so I'd say the same now."

Pogba, who joined United from Juventus in 2016 for a then-world record fee of 89.3 million pounds ($110.83 million), has blown hot and cold in his second stint at the club despite scoring 31 goals in 142 appearances.

"We know <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-responds-to-real-madrid-transfer-rumour-209593&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgMH-prvjAhXCNY8KHXkPDQIQFjAFegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1X46JTfSGHVo38lxUUHUSw">Paul </a>has been criticised by a few but he's loved by loads more," Solskjaer added.

"The ones that might want to leave (the club) now haven't been here when it's been successful. Hopefully, they want to be part of that. I want to be part of it," he added.

United, who finished sixth last season, kick off their new league campaign against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August&nbsp;11.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eager to build his team around midfielder Paul Pogba despite media speculation linking the French World Cup winner with a move away from Old Trafford ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eager to build his team around midfielder Paul Pogba despite media speculation linking the French World Cup winner with a move away from Old Trafford ahead of the new Premier League campaign. Pogba's agent recently said that the 26-year-old intends to leave the club, while the player said in Tokyo last month he could seek a new challenge elsewhere amid reports linking him to Juventus and Real Madrid. "Paul is a fantastic player, a fantastic human being and has always been a great professional," Solskjaer told reporters in Perth. "I said (previously), 'if he's in your squad, you'd build your team around him'... I haven't changed that much since then, so I'd say the same now." Pogba, who joined United from Juventus in 2016 for a then-world record fee of 89.3 million pounds ($110.83 million), has blown hot and cold in his second stint at the club despite scoring 31 goals in 142 appearances. "We know Paul has been criticised by a few but he's loved by loads more," Solskjaer added. "The ones that might want to leave (the club) now haven't been here when it's been successful. Hopefully, they want to be part of that. I want to be part of it," he added. United, who finished sixth last season, kick off their new league campaign against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August 11.

Paul Pogba central to Manchester United rebuilding plans, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey believes Italian champions Juventus are the right club for him and he is looking forward to working with new coach Maurizio Sarri.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-ramsey-leaves-arsenal-after-11-years-to-join-juventus-196858&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjD0Zjh4bjjAhUKYo8KHelqAXwQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1SYs3HE8J2LsMoqGSjLrHz">Ramsey</a>, who signed a four-year deal with Juve in February, left Arsenal after making more than 350 appearances in 11 seasons at the Premier League club.

"When I heard that Juventus were interested in me, I thought it would be a dream to come here, as well as a great challenge. You can't turn down this opportunity. This is the right club for me. I hope to be a part of the history," Ramsey told reporters at his unveiling on Monday.

"The squad and the players and the manager have all welcomed me very nicely so far. I have spoken to him (Sarri) a few times. He is very approachable and easy to talk to...I am looking forward to the challenge and I hope to play my part,'' Ramsey said.

"From what I saw last season, he had a good season at Chelsea. He was definitely a success and hopefully, he can bring his philosophy and style to this team. Winning and playing good football is the ideal situation but it is not the only way," Ramsey added.

The 28-year-old becomes the third Welshman to represent <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-did-not-play-aaron-ramsey-in-best-position-says-juventus-boss-197099&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjD0Zjh4bjjAhUKYo8KHelqAXwQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2xZ0v94bJidCQfHmW0A_bP">Juventus </a>after John Charles, who played for them from 1957 to 1962, and Ian Rush.

"He (Charles) is an absolute legend over here and for Welsh football. He's definitely someone I can look up to and hopefully follow in his footsteps," Ramsey said.

"He definitely took everything in and left his mark here. I know how much he means to this club and the history he contributed here. He is a fantastic player and person I look up to and hope to emulate," Ramsey added.

Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey believes Italian champions Juventus are the right club for him and he is looking forward to working with new coach Maurizio Sarri. Ramsey, who signed a four-year deal with Juve in February, left Arsenal after making more than 350 appearances in 11 seasons at the Premier League club.

Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey believes Italian champions Juventus are the right club for him and he is looking forward to working with new coach Maurizio Sarri. Ramsey, who signed a four-year deal with Juve in February, left Arsenal after making more than 350 appearances in 11 seasons at the Premier League club. "When I heard that Juventus were interested in me, I thought it would be a dream to come here, as well as a great challenge. You can't turn down this opportunity. This is the right club for me. I hope to be a part of the history," Ramsey told reporters at his unveiling on Monday. "The squad and the players and the manager have all welcomed me very nicely so far. I have spoken to him (Sarri) a few times. He is very approachable and easy to talk to...I am looking forward to the challenge and I hope to play my part,'' Ramsey said. "From what I saw last season, he had a good season at Chelsea. He was definitely a success and hopefully, he can bring his philosophy and style to this team. Winning and playing good football is the ideal situation but it is not the only way," Ramsey added. The 28-year-old becomes the third Welshman to represent Juventus after John Charles, who played for them from 1957 to 1962, and Ian Rush. "He (Charles) is an absolute legend over here and for Welsh football. He's definitely someone I can look up to and hopefully follow in his footsteps," Ramsey said. "He definitely took everything in and left his mark here. I know how much he means to this club and the history he contributed here. He is a fantastic player and person I look up to and hope to emulate," Ramsey added.

Aaron Ramsey looking forward to work with 'approachable' Maurizio Sarri at Juventus

Manchester United midfielder <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-dismisses-paul-pogba-leaving-manchester-united-speculation-as-agents-talking-234669&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi52_Sx4LjjAhXFQ48KHUjuDCQQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw26iuSFelP9eBfmAv38MaBb">Paul Pogba</a> must distance himself from speculation that he is set to end an unhappy spell at Old Trafford and focus on pre-season training until a decision is reached on his future, club great Bryan Robson said.

Pogba's agent Mino Raiola recently told The Times that the 26-year-old intends to leave the club, while the player said in Tokyo last month that he thought it might be time for a "new challenge somewhere else".

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hit out at the media during a pre-season tour of Australia, saying there was an agenda against the French World Cup winner.

"There's a lot of speculation in the media about Paul. He's a top player," former United captain Robson, who spent 13 years at the club, told Sky Sports.

"You're a United player, you're contracted to them so you have to give everything for the club, the team and the fans.''

"Get your head down, do your pre-season as well as you can -- which, from what I've seen in the training sessions, he has done -- and if something happens and the club wants it to happen, or nothing happens then you've got to get on with it,"&nbsp;Solskjaer said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-responds-to-real-madrid-transfer-rumour-209593&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi52_Sx4LjjAhXFQ48KHUjuDCQQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw31NXXK-7LvcBKZeaCY3vgN">Pogba</a>, who moved to United from Juventus in 2016 for a then-world record fee of 89.3 million pounds ($112.23 million), has produced inconsistent displays despite scoring 31 goals in 142 appearances in all competitions.

Solskjaer acknowledged United's weakness in midfield but suggested the club's youngsters could solve the problem.

"We need to win again. We are on the way to building a new squad. We've got new staff in, coaching staff," Solskjaer, speaking alongside Robson at a fan event in Perth on United's pre-season tour, said.

"I believe so much in this club and this project. To be the manager of this club is fantastic. I'm standing next to the history of this club. I never had the honour of playing with Robbo but we need a player like him in the team.''

"We're waiting for the young ones to come through because we've got so many exciting players and I'm sure we'll see the best of them in the years to come... We can get back to the level we were, definitely," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-expects-paul-pogba-to-be-manchester-united-player-next-season-213728&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi52_Sx4LjjAhXFQ48KHUjuDCQQFjAGegQIChAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw02LnJCnS8-zcXMZDEkJyAz">Solskjaer </a>added.

United, who finished sixth last season, kick off their new league campaign against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August&nbsp;11.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba must distance himself from speculation that he is set to end an unhappy spell at Old Trafford and focus on pre-season training until a decision is reached on his future, club great Bryan Robson said.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba must distance himself from speculation that he is set to end an unhappy spell at Old Trafford and focus on pre-season training until a decision is reached on his future, club great Bryan Robson said. Pogba's agent Mino Raiola recently told The Times that the 26-year-old intends to leave the club, while the player said in Tokyo last month that he thought it might be time for a "new challenge somewhere else". United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hit out at the media during a pre-season tour of Australia, saying there was an agenda against the French World Cup winner. "There's a lot of speculation in the media about Paul. He's a top player," former United captain Robson, who spent 13 years at the club, told Sky Sports. "You're a United player, you're contracted to them so you have to give everything for the club, the team and the fans.'' "Get your head down, do your pre-season as well as you can -- which, from what I've seen in the training sessions, he has done -- and if something happens and the club wants it to happen, or nothing happens then you've got to get on with it," Solskjaer said. Pogba, who moved to United from Juventus in 2016 for a then-world record fee of 89.3 million pounds ($112.23 million), has produced inconsistent displays despite scoring 31 goals in 142 appearances in all competitions. Solskjaer acknowledged United's weakness in midfield but suggested the club's youngsters could solve the problem. "We need to win again. We are on the way to building a new squad. We've got new staff in, coaching staff," Solskjaer, speaking alongside Robson at a fan event in Perth on United's pre-season tour, said. "I believe so much in this club and this project. To be the manager of this club is fantastic. I'm standing next to the history of this club. I never had the honour of playing with Robbo but we need a player like him in the team.'' "We're waiting for the young ones to come through because we've got so many exciting players and I'm sure we'll see the best of them in the years to come... We can get back to the level we were, definitely," Solskjaer added. United, who finished sixth last season, kick off their new league campaign against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August 11.

Paul Pogba must put his head down, focus on Manchester United's pre-season: Bryan Robson

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Wednesday dismissed speculation that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-hints-at-move-away-from-manchester-united-227553&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiC_8HNo6rjAhXSmeYKHc9sDq8QFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0FQvNox1Tm9oNb7IXK8q96">Paul Pogba</a> is to leave Old Trafford, saying there had been "no bids" for the midfielder and "agents talk all the time".

The 26-year-old World Cup-winner's future has overshadowed United's pre-season tour since they arrived in Perth on Monday, with Real Madrid and Juventus rumoured as possible destinations.

Mino Raiola, Pogba's agent, told UK radio station talkSPORT on Tuesday that "everyone knows the willingness of Paul to move on".

But Solskjaer, who took the reins from Jose Mourinho last December, said it was "business as usual" and warned the club were under no pressure to offload <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-uniteds-performance-at-everton-was-disrespectful-says-paul-pogba-212710&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiC_8HNo6rjAhXSmeYKHc9sDq8QFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3AHaAk7N5YlTqkRUB_UYb-">Pogba</a>, or anyone else.

"There are no bids for our players. Agents talk all the time. We are Manchester United, we don't have to sell players," he said at a press conference after training ahead of matches in the Western Australia city against Perth Glory on Saturday and Leed United on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"When you're at Manchester United you expect all these things to pop up in the summer,"&nbsp;Solskjaer said.

Footage on social media Tuesday suggested Pogba and teammate Jesse Lingard had clashed on the trip, but Solskjaer said there had been no dust-up and that the Frenchman had been on the end of unfair press treatment.

'Top, top bloke' 
 
"With Paul, it looks like it's going to be a media, I don't want to call it, but it's an agenda against Paul," he said.&nbsp;

"He's a top, top bloke. He's a great professional. He's never been any problem.''

"Jesse and Paul were walking around and it's been portrayed as a fight between the two boys. There are no problems between the boys. Pre-season has been very good so far," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-expects-paul-pogba-to-be-manchester-united-player-next-season-213728&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiC_8HNo6rjAhXSmeYKHc9sDq8QFjAFegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QtFG9rk75MW9V_kslkNLX">Solskjaer</a>.

Uncertainty has also surrounded David de Gea's future but Solskjaer said he was optimistic about the goalkeeper remaining at Old Trafford, despite only one year remaining on his contract. &nbsp;

"David has had a summer where he's been negotiating and we hope we're going to get it sorted," Solskjaer said.&nbsp;

"I'm positive, of course with David I've said many times how lucky I am and happy we are to have him in goal," he added.

United have been linked with Southampton's Mario Lemina and Spurs playmaker Christian Eriksen among others, but the United manager remained coy on his transfer targets.&nbsp;

"We are still in the market. We are patient. We don't have to overspend. We want the right players for the right price," he said.

Solskjaer said he expected<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-expects-paul-pogba-to-be-manchester-united-player-next-season-213728&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiC_8HNo6rjAhXSmeYKHc9sDq8QFjAFegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QtFG9rk75MW9V_kslkNLX"> Alexis Sanchez,</a> who limped out of Chile's Copa America third-place play-off defeat by Argentina on Saturday, to be fit for the start of the Premier League season.

After playing the two matches in Perth, United will travel on for further pre-season games in Singapore and China.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Wednesday dismissed speculation that Paul Pogba is to leave Old Trafford, saying there had been "no bids" for the midfielder and "agents talk all the time".

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Wednesday dismissed speculation that Paul Pogba is to leave Old Trafford, saying there had been "no bids" for the midfielder and "agents talk all the time". The 26-year-old World Cup-winner's future has overshadowed United's pre-season tour since they arrived in Perth on Monday, with Real Madrid and Juventus rumoured as possible destinations. Mino Raiola, Pogba's agent, told UK radio station talkSPORT on Tuesday that "everyone knows the willingness of Paul to move on". But Solskjaer, who took the reins from Jose Mourinho last December, said it was "business as usual" and warned the club were under no pressure to offload Pogba, or anyone else. "There are no bids for our players. Agents talk all the time. We are Manchester United, we don't have to sell players," he said at a press conference after training ahead of matches in the Western Australia city against Perth Glory on Saturday and Leed United on Tuesday. "When you're at Manchester United you expect all these things to pop up in the summer," Solskjaer said. Footage on social media Tuesday suggested Pogba and teammate Jesse Lingard had clashed on the trip, but Solskjaer said there had been no dust-up and that the Frenchman had been on the end of unfair press treatment. 'Top, top bloke' "With Paul, it looks like it's going to be a media, I don't want to call it, but it's an agenda against Paul," he said. "He's a top, top bloke. He's a great professional. He's never been any problem.'' "Jesse and Paul were walking around and it's been portrayed as a fight between the two boys. There are no problems between the boys. Pre-season has been very good so far," said Solskjaer. Uncertainty has also surrounded David de Gea's future but Solskjaer said he was optimistic about the goalkeeper remaining at Old Trafford, despite only one year remaining on his contract. "David has had a summer where he's been negotiating and we hope we're going to get it sorted," Solskjaer said. "I'm positive, of course with David I've said many times how lucky I am and happy we are to have him in goal," he added. United have been linked with Southampton's Mario Lemina and Spurs playmaker Christian Eriksen among others, but the United manager remained coy on his transfer targets. "We are still in the market. We are patient. We don't have to overspend. We want the right players for the right price," he said. Solskjaer said he expected Alexis Sanchez, who limped out of Chile's Copa America third-place play-off defeat by Argentina on Saturday, to be fit for the start of the Premier League season. After playing the two matches in Perth, United will travel on for further pre-season games in Singapore and China.

Solskjaer dismisses Paul Pogba leaving Manchester United speculation as 'agents talking'

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

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach on Sunday, hoping that his ambitious possession-based game would extend their dominance of Italian football and bring them European silverware.

British media reported Juventus agreed to a compensation fee with Chelsea in excess of $6.30 million&nbsp;for Sarri, who joins the Italian giants on a three-year contract.

Sarri was at Chelsea for just one season, where he won the Europa League -- the first major trophy of his career -- and led them to a third-place finish in the Premier League.

On paper it was a commendable feat, but it was a rocky campaign for the former Napoli boss whose team never seemed to fully adapt to his so-called "Sarri-ball" system.

"In talks we had following the Europa League final, Maurizio made it clear how strongly he desired to return to his native country, explaining that his reasons for wanting to return to work in Italy were significant," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said in a statement.

"He also believed it important to be nearer his family, and for the well-being of his elderly parents he felt he needed to live closer to them at this point."

The chain-smoking 60-year-old coach replaced the phlegmatic Massimiliano Allegri who won five successive Serie A titles in as many seasons in charge -- extending Juve's run to eight in a row -- plus the Coppa Italia four times. He also led them to two Champions League finals.

The move is likely to infuriate supporters at Napoli, where Sarri spent three seasons and turned them into the team most likely to threaten Juve's dominance.

Napoli finished as runners-up twice and third place once under Sarri's leadership and achieved a club record 91 points in the 2017-18 when they came agonisingly close to snatching the title -- even beating Juve 1-0 in Turin towards the end of the season.

Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under Allegri, a pragmatic coach who last season fielded 38 different lineups in 38 league matches.

That will not be the case under Sarri, who turned Napoli into the most eye-catching Serie A side with their complex passing movements.

His style, however, makes huge demands of the players and Sarri was also criticised at Napoli over his failure to rest players, something which could prove a problem at Juventus who have more strength-in-depth and will be battling on two fronts.

He will also have to find a way of incorporating Cristiano Ronaldo into his team. The 34-year-old, with two years of his Juventus contract still to run, is still lethal in small bursts but not able to maintain such a high tempo over 90 minutes.

A former bank employee, Sarri never played football professionally and made his Serie A coaching debut at the age of 55 with Empoli after winning promotion with them in 2014.

Known as “Mr 33”, because he reputedly thought up 33 different plans for setpieces, Sarri quickly innovated at Napoli by using a drone to film training sessions from above.

Sarri began coaching amateur teams back in the 1990s, managing to combine his hobby with a banking career that took him to the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg.

He coached 16 different sides in the lower division of the Italian league before finally reaching Serie A with Empoli.

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach on Sunday, hoping that his ambitious possession-based game would extend their dominance of Italian football and bring them European silverware.

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach on Sunday, hoping that his ambitious possession-based game would extend their dominance of Italian football and bring them European silverware. British media reported Juventus agreed to a compensation fee with Chelsea in excess of $6.30 million for Sarri, who joins the Italian giants on a three-year contract. Sarri was at Chelsea for just one season, where he won the Europa League -- the first major trophy of his career -- and led them to a third-place finish in the Premier League. On paper it was a commendable feat, but it was a rocky campaign for the former Napoli boss whose team never seemed to fully adapt to his so-called "Sarri-ball" system. "In talks we had following the Europa League final, Maurizio made it clear how strongly he desired to return to his native country, explaining that his reasons for wanting to return to work in Italy were significant," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said in a statement. "He also believed it important to be nearer his family, and for the well-being of his elderly parents he felt he needed to live closer to them at this point." The chain-smoking 60-year-old coach replaced the phlegmatic Massimiliano Allegri who won five successive Serie A titles in as many seasons in charge -- extending Juve's run to eight in a row -- plus the Coppa Italia four times. He also led them to two Champions League finals. The move is likely to infuriate supporters at Napoli, where Sarri spent three seasons and turned them into the team most likely to threaten Juve's dominance. Napoli finished as runners-up twice and third place once under Sarri's leadership and achieved a club record 91 points in the 2017-18 when they came agonisingly close to snatching the title -- even beating Juve 1-0 in Turin towards the end of the season. Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under Allegri, a pragmatic coach who last season fielded 38 different lineups in 38 league matches. That will not be the case under Sarri, who turned Napoli into the most eye-catching Serie A side with their complex passing movements. His style, however, makes huge demands of the players and Sarri was also criticised at Napoli over his failure to rest players, something which could prove a problem at Juventus who have more strength-in-depth and will be battling on two fronts. He will also have to find a way of incorporating Cristiano Ronaldo into his team. The 34-year-old, with two years of his Juventus contract still to run, is still lethal in small bursts but not able to maintain such a high tempo over 90 minutes. A former bank employee, Sarri never played football professionally and made his Serie A coaching debut at the age of 55 with Empoli after winning promotion with them in 2014. Known as “Mr 33”, because he reputedly thought up 33 different plans for setpieces, Sarri quickly innovated at Napoli by using a drone to film training sessions from above. Sarri began coaching amateur teams back in the 1990s, managing to combine his hobby with a banking career that took him to the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg. He coached 16 different sides in the lower division of the Italian league before finally reaching Serie A with Empoli.

Maurizio Sarri returns to Italy to coach Juventus

Former <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-head-coach-massimiliano-allegri-praises-christiano-ronaldos-mental-strength-218734&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi4t63eyOjiAhVKM48KHRveCfIQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Fm594Rp1PID7x7Wpk-Y9o">Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri</a> has said he needs to recharge his batteries and will take a year off from football before returning to management.

The 51-year-old led Juventus to five consecutive Serie A titles, four Coppa Italias and two Champions League runner-up finishes in his five years in charge but parted ways with the club at the end of the season.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/massimiliano-allegri-to-leave-juventus-at-end-of-season-219433&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi4t63eyOjiAhVKM48KHRveCfIQFjAGegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3goQfOKkIEF8PSnwCXVFif">I'm going to take a year off</a> to recharge the batteries and take my personal life back in hand," the BBC quoted Allegri as saying at an event in Milan. "The last 16 years have felt like being in a spin-dryer."

Allegri began his managerial career in 2004 in Italy's fourth division and also managed AC Milan, who he led to the Serie A title in 2011, before joining Juventus in 2014.

British and Italian media have reported that Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is close to being named as Allegri's replacement after Juventus reached an agreement in principle with the Premier League side to sign the Italian.

Former Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has said he needs to recharge his batteries and will take a year off from football before returning to management. The 51-year-old led Juventus to five consecutive Serie A titles, four Coppa Italias and two Champions League runner-up finishes in his five years in charge but parted ways with the club at the end of the season.

Former Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has said he needs to recharge his batteries and will take a year off from football before returning to management. The 51-year-old led Juventus to five consecutive Serie A titles, four Coppa Italias and two Champions League runner-up finishes in his five years in charge but parted ways with the club at the end of the season. "I'm going to take a year off to recharge the batteries and take my personal life back in hand," the BBC quoted Allegri as saying at an event in Milan. "The last 16 years have felt like being in a spin-dryer." Allegri began his managerial career in 2004 in Italy's fourth division and also managed AC Milan, who he led to the Serie A title in 2011, before joining Juventus in 2014. British and Italian media have reported that Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is close to being named as Allegri's replacement after Juventus reached an agreement in principle with the Premier League side to sign the Italian.

Former Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri wants year off from football

Chelsea manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a> has told the club he wants to leave after a single season to join Italian champions Juventus, according to reports on Saturday.

Sarri has been an uncomfortable fit with fans at Stamford Bridge and despite winning the Europa League this week and finishing third in the Premier League, there is a perception the chain-smoking coach is unwilling to adapt tactics when things go wrong.

Sarri has been widely linked with Juventus, who are seeking a successor to Massimiliano Allegri, although sports daily Gazzetta reported Saturday that Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino was also on their radar.

Sarri held talks with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia on Friday and informed her that he wanted to return to his homeland, the reports in Britain and Italy said.

Granovskaia, it is said, has promised to talk to club owner Roman Abramovich about his future, but it would seem Chelsea will seek compensation from any suitor.

Sarri succeeded Antonio Conte as Chelsea manager last summer after spending three years at Napoli.

The 60-year-old enjoyed a tremendous start at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea went unbeaten in 18 games.

But Sarri endured consistent criticism from a significant portion of the club's supporters throughout the campaign and suffered heavy 4-0 and 6-0 defeats at Bournemouth and Manchester City.

Chelsea, however, reached the Carabao&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final, which they lost on penalties to Manchester City, before finishing the season strongly.

Sarri claimed the first major trophy of his career when Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in Baku on Wednesday to win the Europa League final, but refused to commit his future to the club, saying: "You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition, and I am lucky because I am at Chelsea, one of the best teams in the best championship in the&nbsp;world.

"So at the moment I am happy, but of course I want to know if the club is happy, if we can improve.

"It's normal I think; I have a discussion with the owner after every season with every club."

Chelsea are facing a transfer ban next season which could restrict their ability to attract a big name coach.

The club have been linked with their former midfielder Frank Lampard, now the manager of Championship side Derby, should Sarri leave Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has told the club he wants to leave after a single season to join Italian champions Juventus, according to reports on Saturday. Sarri has been an uncomfortable fit with fans at Stamford Bridge and despite winning the Europa League this week and finishing third in the Premier League, there is a perception the chain-smoking coach is unwilling to adapt tactics when things go wrong.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has told the club he wants to leave after a single season to join Italian champions Juventus, according to reports on Saturday. Sarri has been an uncomfortable fit with fans at Stamford Bridge and despite winning the Europa League this week and finishing third in the Premier League, there is a perception the chain-smoking coach is unwilling to adapt tactics when things go wrong. Sarri has been widely linked with Juventus, who are seeking a successor to Massimiliano Allegri, although sports daily Gazzetta reported Saturday that Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino was also on their radar. Sarri held talks with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia on Friday and informed her that he wanted to return to his homeland, the reports in Britain and Italy said. Granovskaia, it is said, has promised to talk to club owner Roman Abramovich about his future, but it would seem Chelsea will seek compensation from any suitor. Sarri succeeded Antonio Conte as Chelsea manager last summer after spending three years at Napoli. The 60-year-old enjoyed a tremendous start at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea went unbeaten in 18 games. But Sarri endured consistent criticism from a significant portion of the club's supporters throughout the campaign and suffered heavy 4-0 and 6-0 defeats at Bournemouth and Manchester City. Chelsea, however, reached the Carabao Cup final, which they lost on penalties to Manchester City, before finishing the season strongly. Sarri claimed the first major trophy of his career when Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in Baku on Wednesday to win the Europa League final, but refused to commit his future to the club, saying: "You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition, and I am lucky because I am at Chelsea, one of the best teams in the best championship in the world. "So at the moment I am happy, but of course I want to know if the club is happy, if we can improve. "It's normal I think; I have a discussion with the owner after every season with every club." Chelsea are facing a transfer ban next season which could restrict their ability to attract a big name coach. The club have been linked with their former midfielder Frank Lampard, now the manager of Championship side Derby, should Sarri leave Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri close to Juventus switch

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