Figo Backs Juve For Euro Glory

Cristiano Ronaldo could be the spark that Juventus need to win the Champions League this season, countryman Luis Figo believes.

Ronaldo has scored 19 times in 24 Serie A appearances since moving to the Turin club from Real Madrid last summer and, at 34, is still collecting a haul of individual accolades.

Former Madrid winger Figo believes players are better conditioned in the modern era and he expects Ronaldo to stay at the top level for some time to come.

Speaking in his role as a Laureus Ambassador in Monaco, Figo said: “There are much more games now and of course you have to take care of yourself if you want to play until you’re 36 or 37.”

Juventus have not won the Champions League in 23 years although they have reached the final five times since then, including two of the last four.

With Ronaldo now in their ranks, Figo thinks Juventus have a better opportunity to go all the way this season – although he added that they face a tough tie in the last 16 against Atletico Madrid.

He said: “I’m sure he can because he’s one of the best and he’s showing that in the domestic league they don’t have an opponent in Italy. “I think they are one of the favourites (to win the Champions League).

“They play against Atletico Madrid next, it’s always very tough because they are always very intensive and of course they have excellent motivation as they could play the final back home. It will be a nice two games to watch.”