Earlier this week, Juventus summer signing, Cristiano Ronaldo was alleged to have raped a model in America nine years ago, and has been subject of criticism by some football lovers, but the Italian Champions have now thrown their weight behind the embattled striker, who is the captain of the Portugal national team.
The Turin club have praised their player’s “professionalism and dedication” and say the allegations made against him “do not change this opinion”
Juventus have backed former Real Madrid forward, Cristiano Ronaldo in the wake of a summons being issued for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner over an alleged rape.
Kathryn Mayorga accused the player of sexual assault in her hotel room in 2009 via an interview released last Friday by Der Spiegel.
Las Vegas Police Department (LVPD) have since confirmed that they are reopening the case but Juve, who signed Ronaldo from Real Madrid in the summer for £100m ($128m), have vowed to stand by their player via statements posted on social media.
“Cristiano Ronaldo has shown in recent months his great professionalism and dedication, which is appreciated by everyone at Juventus,” the Turin giants said via Twitter.
“The events allegedly dating back to almost 10 years ago do not change this opinion, which is shared by anyone who has come into contact with this great champion.”
The statement comes in the way of a denial from the player, who said: “Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in.
“Keen as I may be to clear my name, I refuse to feed the media spectacle created by people seeking to promote themselves at my expense.”
Ronaldo missed the club’s midweek 3-0 Champions League encounter against Young Boys after being dismissed in their opening match against Valencia for which he received a one-game ban, but is slated to make a return for the Serie A leaders when they face Udinese in league action on Saturday.
He has scored three times in eight matches since moving to Italy, having previously found the net 450 times to become Real Madrid’s record scorer.
The Juventus coach was speaking to the media ahead of Saturday's clash with Udinese and confirmed that the Portuguese is ready to play a part at the Dacia Arena.
"Cristiano is fine," Allegri said. "I have only known him for three months, but in his 15-year career, he has always shown professionalism on and off the pitch.
"He is ready to play tomorrow. Cristiano is only focused on tomorrow, others things won't affect him."

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