Published 10:04 IST, November 18th 2019
Cristiano Ronaldo insists 'no controversy' with Juventus boss Maurizio Sarri
Cristiano Ronaldo has denied the rumours about a rift between him and manager Maurizio Sarri, revealing his fitness was the reason for his early substitutions
Cristiano Ronaldo has finally put rumours about a possible rift between him and Juventus' manager Maurizio Sarri to bed. He has revealed that he has not been 100% fit and hence the early substitutions in recent weeks. The former Real Madrid forward was substituted twice in as many games, to which he cut a frustrated figure, but Ronaldo has denied any controversy story.
Juventus: Cristiano Ronaldo's frustrations
Cristiano Ronaldo was first taken off for Paulo Dybala in the 82nd minute of a Champions League match against Lokomotiv Moscow on November 6. He was clearly frustrated as he made his way off the pitch, exchanging few words with manager Maurizio Sarri. Four days later, the Portuguese was once again replaced by Dybala, this time 10 minutes into the second half, during a Serie A clash against AC Milan to which the 34-year-old reacted in an even aggressive manner as he stormed down the tunnel, with reports suggesting he had even left the stadium before the full-time whistle.
And despite Maurizio Sarri insisting that Ronaldo was willing to play despite continuing to struggle with a knee injury and there is no drama behind the scenes, rumours of a rift between the pair began circulating the internet.
Juventus: Cristiano Ronaldo breaks his silence
Cristiano Ronaldo has finally put an end to the speculation by confirming his fitness issues. After Portugal's 2-0 win over Luxembourg on Sunday Ronaldo said he understands why he has been substituted in Juventus' last two games and explained that he has been playing for his club and country while not fully fit. Ronaldo admitted that he doesn't like to be substituted but understands Sarri's decision at the same time. The Portuguese has insisted that there is no controversy at the club and the rumours of a rift are wide off the mark.
Cristiano Ronaldo leads the way for Portugal
Updated 16:45 IST, November 18th 2019