Pranav Nair
Andrea Pirlo expects Cristiano Ronaldo to stay put amidst Manchester United interest
According to Manchester Evening News, Juventus boss Andrea Pirlo expects Cristiano Ronaldo to stay put despite interest from Manchester United.
The 36-year-old has been linked with a move away from Turin after what has been a disappointing season for the Italian giants. They did, however, salvage it to an extent by securing Champions League football for next season.
Despite Ronaldo being left on the bench, Juventus stormed home to a 4-1 win over Bologna. Meanwhile, Napoli failed to get the better of Hellas Verona, ensuring Juventus finished in the top four.
Speaking ahead of the game, Pirlo admitted that he believes Ronaldo is fully focussed on Juventus and that he is willing to put the team ahead of himself.
“I see him still in the ‘Bianconero’ jersey and focused.”
It was reported earlier that Juventus not qualifying for the Champions League would be the final straw in their efforts to keep Ronaldo. With such a scenario no more an option, it remains to be seen if the Portuguese sensation will push for an exit.
While the Old Lady has struggled, Ronaldo has continued to rack up numbers despite his age. The 36-year-old scored 36 goals and made four assists in just 44 appearances this season. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Ronaldo spent six seasons at United, producing a return of 118 goals and 69 assists in 292 games across all competitions. He helped United win three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, A UEFA Champions League and a FIFA Club World Cup during his stint.
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Ronaldo returning to Old Trafford has a sense of romanticism to it. The club, however, is better off exploring other avenues. We will do well to look more to the future than dig up the past.
