Ex-Chelsea and Juventus player Juan Cuadrado claims former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo does not want him in Saudi Arabia amid rumours the 35-year-old Colombian could be destined for the Middle East.
Cuadrado failed to agree a new contract with Juventus and is currently a free agent this summer after playing over 300 games for the Italian giants. He made just thirteen appearances for Chelsea during a two year spell at Stamford Bridge between 2015 and 2017.
The Colombian international shared three seasons with Ronaldo in Turin, winning two Serie A titles before the Portuguese superstar made a return to Manchester United in 2021.
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Now plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr at the start of the year has opened the door for several other high profile players, and indeed former players, to make the switch from Europe to the Middle East in recent weeks.
Ballon d’Or winner Karmin Benzema, another of Ronaldo’s former teammates, has signed for reigning champions Al Ittihad.
He is joined by compatriot N’Golo Kante, while the likes of Roberto Firmino, Ruben Neves, and Edouard Mendy have all swapped the Premier League for the Saudi Pro League next season.
Steven Gerrard, meanwhile, will take charge of Al Ettifaq next term, with another Liverpool legend, Robbie Fowler, coaching second tier side Al-Qadsiah.
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And following his departure from The Old Lady, Cuadrado’s name has been added to a long list of players potentially destined to follow suit in this summer’s transfer window.
However, speaking to Colombian outlet AS, the skilful winger played down a possible move, citing Ronaldo’s apparent strong feelings on the matter.
“At this moment, I still have the passion and I like to compete,” said Cuadrado.
“Besides, Ronaldo is down there and he doesn't want me!
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“I am very relaxed, thinking of what is best, asking God for help with these decisions. My agent Andrey Martinez was in Europe and has just arrived to talk to me about various situations. Obviously, there are options and we'll analyse which is the best.”
Speaking about his time in Italy, Cuadrado added: “'I can only thank God for having eight years playing at that level. I dreamed of it, but didn't think it would be like that, spending so long there.
“I hope that in future Colombians who go to the likes of Juventus and Milan can leave this kind of legacy too. It fills me with pride.”
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Saudi Pro League, Juventus, Karim Benzema