Former Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has identified the player who could best complement aging superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portuguese national team.
The Italian legend, who played alongside Ronaldo at Juventus, pointed to AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, noting that the young forward’s “erratic movement” poses challenges for the legendary number 7.
Chiellini on Ronaldo and Portugal
Leao, who has started two out of Portugal’s three matches so far, has failed to score a goal or provide an assist, while the 39-year-old Ronaldo has played in all three matches with one assist to his name.
Chiellini, known for his defensive prowess, offered a unique perspective, suggesting that Liverpool’s Diogo Jota would be a much more “functional” partner for Ronaldo.
“In my opinion, Ronaldo seems more useful for the Portuguese national team than Gonçalo Ramos,” Chiellini said according to Sportskeeda. “However, Leao is not the best partner for Cristiano. He makes unnecessary movements that take him out of the game. Jota is much more functional as he can interchange positions with Cristiano,” he added.
The former Juventus defender’s remarks carry weight given his extensive experience and close working relationship with Ronaldo during their time together in Turin.
While Leao has struggled to make an impact, Jota has only managed two substitute appearances so far at Euro 2024, prompting Chiellini to suggest that the Liverpool forward could be the missing piece in Portugal’s offensive puzzle.
As the quarter-finals approach, Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez faces a crucial decision regarding the composition of his attacking lineup.
Chiellini’s insights could prove invaluable as the Iberian nation seeks to navigate the latter stages of the tournament and potentially set up a showdown with their main rivals, Spain.
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