Cristiano addresses Juve exit rumors ahead of Portugal's Euro 2020 opener vs Hungary

June 14, 2021 By Ali M.

Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Juventus, Hungary, Portugal, UEFA Euro 2020

The Portuguese icon continues to be linked with a move away to Turin despite currently being with his national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to captain Portugal for the ongoing European Championship, but unfortunately, the issue of the 36-year-old's future remains a distraction in the headlines. With the defending champions gearing up for their Euro 2020 opening game against Hungary, the iconic forward was asked about the transfer rumors, which he addressed.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner enjoyed another impressive campaign in the Italian top-flight on an individual level, finishing the season as the top scorer ahead of Inter Milan's Romelu Lukaku. However, it was yet another disappointing campaign for the team, with the Bianconeri crashing out in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 against Porto while losing the Scudetto to the Nerazzurri.

In fact, the Old Lady looked destined to miss out on a top-four finish, and subsequently, UCL football. The prospect of playing in the UEFA Europa League was the driving force behind the exit rumors, and while Juventus managed to sneak into the top four on the final day, those speculations did not die away.

A move to PSG looks likely, while talks of a return to either Real Madrid or Man United have popped up. With Portugal set to kick off their title defense on Tuesday, Cristiano was asked if this would be a distraction, which the player quickly dismissed, stressing it would have no effect on his focus and determination.

While Ronaldo gave no details as to what's in store for the future, he all but admitted that a Juventus exit is possible. Speaking to the media, Cristiano said (as per Goal):

"I have been playing at the highest level for many years this doesn't faze me, maybe if I was 18 or 19 I might have had some sleepless nights, but I'm 36. Whatever comes will be for the best, regardless of staying at Juve or being transferred.

"The crucial thing now is the Euros, it is my fifth Euros, but for me it's like my first Euros. We want to play a good match with good thoughts from the first to the last match."

Fernando Santos' men will get their campaign underway on Tuesday, taking on Hungary in a repeat of their thrilling 2016 group stage showdown. Victory is crucial as every point counts in the Group of Death as A Seleção have also been grouped with France and Germany.