Following an uncomfortable start to this Maurizio Sarri age, CR7 is back to his best, regaining the elite standing for which Juventus paid a club-record fee. With eight goals in the last five league outings, he is generating the amounts expected from a five-time Ballon D’Or winner.
Running within an expressive forward role under the Italian, he is thriving under the liberty. Ruthless when coming through the center, he is giving defenders nightmares. Indeed, the Portuguese substituted his style to keep moving into central regions where his abilities are amplified. Sarri’s flexible system enabled him to shake off the cobwebs. The Portuguese talisman worked hard to rediscover his form after knee issues threatened to stop his progress in Turin.
The Old Lady has been rewarded for her patience, yet the boons could be sweeter. Provided that he stays consistent, large things await. However, there is more work to do. Despite his heroics in Italy, Ronaldo has not been inspired in the Champions League. With two goals in the group stages, he did not have much influence on the Bianconeri’s progress. However, his thirst for turning up on the largest events can not be denied. The participant with the most knockout rounds goals in the contest’s history enjoys scoring when it matters
An Olympique Lyon side stripped of its fangs should not poison the Bianconeri’s momentum. Juve expect to progress past the quarterfinal, however. At that point and past, teams like Liverpool and Real Madrid will be awaiting. The Zebras need Ronaldo to build momentum out of this sudden outburst.
Finally, Sarri accounts for the Italian champion’s continued success or abrupt failure but he relies on his main assets. Paulo Dybala, once an outcast, is now as essential as Ronaldo. With his slick design, Juventus can finesse the most stiff defence. There is a reason to shine light in their budding bond. Cristiano enjoys playing alongside the nearest teammate he will have to Messi. They have produced magic under Sarriball however a few stumbling blocks remain. The gaffer needs to discover a wrinkle or two to boost their chemistry. Like Lautaro Martinez and Romelu Lukaku, Ronaldo and Dybala can construct an intuitive partnership to cause maximum harm.
He does not take no for an answer. The Portuguese will not stop until he has fulfilled his purpose and the Old Lady’s Champions League curse is lifted.
There is also the Ballon d’Or schedule on his mind. To be in mind and push aside challengers, consistency is essential. Now that he has found his stride, he should carry through to the end.
Defending Portugal’s European championship also stays in his mind. He was not on the pitch in the end, last time. He’d love to change this summer.
Both goals are in the long run, though. At the moment, the eight-times-running Scudetto winners are facing their biggest challenge in that interval. Inter are not intent on slowing down. Level on points, the Bianconeri stay six goals in arrears.
