Is Real Madrid really keen on having Cristiano Ronaldo back?

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal continues his glorious ride in the world of football. Currently playing for Juventus, he has tasted European success but has failed in the European circuit. He is reportedly eyeing a move back to former club Real Madrid.

First Published Mar 26, 2021, 1:54 PM IST | Last Updated Mar 26, 2021, 1:54 PM IST

Portuguese sensation Cristiano Ronaldo is unstoppable, be it a club or international football. Even at the age of 36, he is showing no signs of slowing down.

While he is currently playing for Juventus, where he has tasted domestic and individual success, the same has not been the case in the European circuit. His side was knocked out in the UEFA Champions League pre-quarters a couple of weeks back by FC Porto.

Consequently, reports are doing rounds that he could be on his way out of Turin while he is eyeing a return to his former club, the Spanish champion, Real Madrid. However, is Madrid really keen on having him back?

According to a Spanish daily Cope report, Madrid is not really keen on having Ronaldo back, despite both having good terms and respect for each other. It adds that Madrid is looking to reinforce its squad with promising talents for the future, rather than having a veteran whose career might be on a downward spiral.

The report contradicts the statement made by Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane. “We know Cristiano; we know the person he is and everything he has done here. But now, he’s a Juventus player and we must respect this. Now, let’s see what the future will be. I was lucky enough to coach him and he is very impressive. Right now, he’s helping Juventus,” he had told Sky Sports.

Meanwhile, Juventus vice-president Pavel Nedved has made it clear that there are no intentions for the club to sell Ronaldo as of now and that he is to stay. “For me, Cristiano can’t be touched. He has a contract until June 30, 2022, and he will stay. We’ll see what happens after that,” he told Reuters.