Juventus striker Cristiano Ronaldo came out with a strong statement on Instagram after ‘disrespectful’ reports linking him with Real Madrid, PSG and Manchester City. ‘I can’t allow people to keep playing around with my name.’
The Ballon d’Or winner has become a media pawn in various different transfer stories, part of a domino effect around the fates of Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi.
After Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti stated via social media that he had no intention of signing Ronaldo this summer, despite their mutual admiration and respect, CR7 has also had his say in a lengthy Instagram post.
“Anyone who knows me is aware of how focused I am on my work. Less talk and more action, this has been my guiding motto since the start of my career. However, in view of everything that’s been said and written recently, I have to set out my position.
“More than the disrespect for me as a man and as a player, the frivolous way that my future is covered in the media is disrespectful to all the clubs involved in these rumours, as well as to their players and staff.
“My story at Real Madrid has been written. It’s been recorded. In words and numbers, in trophies and titles, in records and in headlines. It’s in the Museum at the Bernabeu Stadium and it’s also in the minds of every fan of the club.
“And beyond what I achieved, I remember that in those nine years I had a relationship of deep affection and respect for “merengue afición”, an affection and respect that I retain to this day, and that I will always cherish. I know that the true Real Madrid fans will continue to have me in their hearts, and I will have them in mine.
“As well as this most recent episode in Spain, there have been frequent news and stories associating me with a number of clubs in many different Leagues, with nobody ever being concerned about trying to find out the actual truth.
“I’m breaking my silence now to say that I can’t allow people to keep playing around with my name. I remain focused on my career and in my work, committed and prepared for all the challenges that I have to face. Everything else? Everything else is just talk.”
Critics will also point out that it was a very good personal friend of Ronaldo’s, Edu Aguirre, who broke the ‘big news’ on El Chiringuito de Jugones television show last night that the player was considering a return to Real Madrid because of his friendship with Ancelotti.
This statement also does little to address his intention of remaining at Juventus, or indeed mention the Bianconeri at all, although as his contract is due to expire in June 2022, that is perhaps less pressing an issue.