Juventus are refusing to give up hope of Cristiano Ronaldo returning to action for their second Champions League group match.

The Portuguese is currently in isolation following his recent COVID-19 diagnosis, which he received whilst on international duty.

Ronaldo, 35, underwent a second coronavirus test on Thursday and once again tested positive for the infectious disease.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid winger’s second positive test has ruled him out of Juventus ‘ Serie A and Champions League clashes with Verona and Barcelona.

But the Italian giants are still optimistic about his chances of playing against the Catalans.

According to Spanish outlet Sport, Juventus will ask UEFA to allow Ronaldo to undergo a fresh COVID-19 test 48 hours before the visit of Barca.

They hope a negative test will convince European football’s governing body to allow the forward to play against Ronald Koeman’s side.

Should UEFA accept the Old Lady’s last-ditch plan for Ronaldo to play against Barca, the forward will be once again be pitted against his former La Liga rival Lionel Messi.

Messi opened up on his rivalry with his former foe in an interview with DAZN ahead of this weekend’s El Clasico, saying: “The one with Cristiano Ronaldo was and is a special duel, which will remain forever.

“It lasted many years and it is not easy to maintain certain levels for a long time.

“Our teams were also very demanding: Real Madrid and Barcelona, the two strongest clubs in the world.

“Competing as equals for so many years is something that will remain forever.

“The duel between me and Cristiano Ronaldo was very good on a personal level and I think people enjoyed it.”

Ronaldo, who joined Juve from Real Madrid in the summer of 2018, has made two appearances for the defending Italian champions this season – scoring three goals for Andrea Pirlo’s side.

source:- fcnaija