Cristiano Ronaldo was a no-show at the Champions League draw and the Juventus star’s agent slammed UEFA for a “ridiculous” snub.
The former Real Madrid star played a key role in their third consecutive trophy and was named Forward of the Season by UEFA.
However, the overall award for Champions League Player of the Season went to Luka Modric.
Some are wondering if this is why Ronaldo was expected in Monte Carlo, but didn’t arrive to accept his award.
Cristiano Ronaldo was a no-show at the Champions League draw and the Juventus star’s agent slammed UEFA for a “ridiculous” snub.
The former Real Madrid star played a key role in their third consecutive trophy and was named Forward of the Season by UEFA.
However, the overall award for Champions League Player of the Season went to Luka Modric.
Some are wondering if this is why Ronaldo was expected in Monte Carlo, but didn’t arrive to accept his award.
Agent Jorge Mendes seemed to imply as much when he spoke to Portuguese paper Record.
“Football is played on the field and that’s where Cristiano won. He scored 15 goals, carried Real Madrid on his back and conquered the Champions League again.
“It’s ridiculous, shameful. The winner is not in doubt, as Ronaldo is the best in his position.”
Ronaldo will face another of his former clubs, as Juventus are in the same group as Manchester United, Valencia and Young Boys.
“I can say it was a personal decision not to come and he made it earlier today,” confirmed Juventus director Beppe Marotta on Sky Sport Italia.
“We want to respect that. As far as we are concerned, we are profoundly disappointed that he did not receive the trophy. This is for performances in the Champions League and not the World Cup, so we maintain Ronaldo deserved it more.
“I take nothing away from the decision of the jury, but if I had voted, I would’ve voted for Ronaldo. I don’t say that because he is our player, but as a lover of football.”