Blaise Matuidi hails the fitness levels of Cristiano Ronaldo

Juventus attacker has hailed the fitness levels of Cristiano Ronaldo following the club’s recent Champions League meeting at Manchester United. The Portugal international played through the entire 90 minutes of his Old Trafford comeback and he made a notable contribution with a sublime cross from the right wing which contributed towards Paulo Dybala’s match-winning goal.

Speaking to RMC Sport, Matuidi was impressed by the fitness levels of the former Real Madrid man and highlighted that the Portuguese did not show any aftereffects following the 1-0 triumph over United, he said: “We were all dead tired after the match against Manchester United and the day after, except Cristiano. He’s been working like crazy ever since he got here. He’s been at it more than anyone else and he told me he ‘had to’ behave like that.

“That’s why at 33, he’s been an example for all of us and given us an extra stimulus. His influence isn’t limited to his work during the week. “He’s also crucial over the 90 minutes. He can do things that others can’t to help improve the team’s game. “Everyone feels much stronger alongside him. He’s a leader in this sense.”

“Ronaldo made the surprise move to Juventus from Real Madrid during the previous summer transfer window “ as he wanted to pursue a fresh challenge during the final stages of his professional career. He thereafter struggled to find the scoresheet in the
“opening three league games“for Juventus but he has since found his feet with seven goals from as many Serie A matches.

As such, many have fancied the Bianconeri to become a force in Europe this term and it remains to be seen whether they can end their two-decade long wait for the Champions League crown. The Serie A holders are scheduled to face Cagliari at the Allianz Stadium this weekend before entertaining Manchester United in the Champions League on Wednesday.