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Cristiano Ronaldo: Juventus boss reveals star could MISS Champions League clash
CRISTIANO RONALDO could miss the Champions League quarter-final first leg with Ajax, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed.
Ronaldo was forced off with a thigh problem in Portugal’s 1-1 draw with Serbia in Euro 2020 qualifying on Monday night.
Allegri says he will not be risked for the match on April 10 if he believes there is a risk of aggravating the injury.
"He's already started to move but he won't return to training until he feels fit,” the Italian said.
“There is a risk he'll miss the first leg against Ajax.
"We have to be careful because we're in a tricky period of the season.
“It's better he misses one match and comes back when he's 100 per cent so there's no risk of a repeat injury. It's better to miss one match than two months.”
Juve are on course for there eighth Serie A title in a row and Ronaldo has been key to their charge for both domestic and European honours with 24 goals in all competitions since his summer move from Real Madrid.
After suffering the injury, the 32-year-old was defiant and claimed he had no concerns about being out long term.
“I’m not worried, because I know perfectly my body,” Ronaldo said.
“It happens, it’s football. Who’s out there risks it.
“I’m calm, because I know I’m going to be back well in one or two weeks with no problem.”
Despite Ronaldo’s positivity, his absence is sure to be felt against an Ajax side who have surprised everyone this season.
Erik ten Hag’s young team came from behind to dump out holders Real Madrid in the last 16 and their array of talent will provide a stern test for one of the competition’s favourites.
Ronaldo was brought in specifically with European glory in mind having won the Champions League four times with Real.
Juve have not won a trophy on the continent since the Champions League in 1997.