Fabio Capello claims Cristiano Ronaldo “hasn’t dribbled past anyone for three years” and tells the Juventus superstar to “respect” Maurizio Sarri’s decision.
Speaking as a pundit on Sky Sport Italia, Capello felt it was obvious why Ronaldo had to leave the pitch during the 1-0 win against Milan last night, while pointing out the “character” Sarri showed to substitute him.
“Right now, he’s not playing well and it was correct to take him off,” remarked the 73-year-old.
“It took character to make that change but, in the end, it won [Sarri] the game.
“The fact he didn’t sit down on the bench and said some bad words to Sarri doesn’t make for a pretty picture.
“You must be a champion when you are replaced, not only when things are going well. He is not playing well at the moment, but Dybala is in great form.”
The ex-Juve and Milan coach went on to have a dig at the Portuguese, who has scored just six goals all season.
“The truth is that Ronaldo hasn’t dribbled past anyone for three years. I remember when he went past the players and left them on the spot.
“Now, it doesn’t really happen anymore, whereas Douglas Costa and Dybala are doing that.
“If I had been in Sarri’s shoes, I would have approached him in the dressing room.
“I would have told him that he must show respect for his colleagues and, if I take him off, it’s because I want to win the game.”
Paulo Dybala replaced Ronaldo in the second half and scored the winner to keep his side top of Serie A going into the international break.
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