How Cristiano Ronaldo set 'example' to Juventus teammates after Manchester United win

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Juventus midfielder Blaise Matuidi has told how Cristiano Ronaldo is setting an example to his teammates.

The Frenchman spoke about Ronaldo's growing influence after the Portuguese superstar inspired his team to a 1-0 away win over Manchester United in the Champions League.

Ronaldo crossed for Paulo Dybala, a player heavily linked with a move to United, to score the winner midway through the first half of the match at Old Trafford last week.

World Cup winner Matuidi said there was a notable difference between the 33-year-old and his Juventus teammates in the hours following the victory.

Speaking to RMC, he said: “We were all dead tired after the match against Manchester United and the day after, except Cristiano.

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

“He’s been working like crazy ever since he got here. He’s been at it more than anyone else and he told me he ‘had to’ behave like that.

“That’s why at 33, he’s been an example for all of us and given us an extra stimulus. His influence isn’t limited to his work during the week.

“He’s also crucial over the 90 minutes. He can do things that others can’t to help improve the team’s game.

“Everyone feels much stronger alongside him. He’s a leader in this sense.”

Ronaldo joined Juventus from Real Madrid for £100million in summer.

The former United man has settled into life in Italy quickly, scoring seven goals in his last seven outings.

Juventus are top of Serie A after 10 games, six points clear of Inter Milan in second.

They will host United in the return Champions League fixture at the Allianz Stadium on Wednesday November 7.

Ronaldo, who spent six years at United between 2003 and 2009, is likely to face his former side again.

He has been shortlisted for the Ballon d'Or, which he has won five times.

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