In a significant development for both Juventus and Cristiano Ronaldo, an arbitration board has ruled that the Italian football club must compensate its former star player, Cristiano Ronaldo, with more than $10 million following a salary dispute. This decision has emerged amidst ongoing financial scrutiny surrounding the club.
The contention arose from a decision taken by Juventus players during the height of the coronavirus pandemic to defer a portion of their salaries to help the club manage financial instability. The amount, totaling 9.8 million euros ($10.5 million), which the arbitration board has directed Juventus to pay, represents half of what Ronaldo had originally claimed in back wages from his former club.
Juventus, in a late Wednesday statement, disclosed that it is currently assessing the arbitration board's decision. The club noted, “with the support of its legal counsel” it is “reviewing the decision made by the arbitration board, reserving all assessments and initiatives to preserve its rights.” This statement indicates that Juventus might be considering further legal steps to address or contest the ruling.
Ronaldo's tenure at Juventus, spanning from 2018 to 2021, was marked by notable successes, including winning two Serie A titles. His influence on the field was significant, contributing to the team's domestic dominance during those years. However, his departure from the club came before a tumultuous period that saw significant upheaval within the club’s management.
In 2023, a dramatic shift occurred at the top levels of Juventus' administration when former president Andrea Agnelli, along with the entire board, resigned. This move came amidst investigations into allegations of false accounting practices at the club. These issues culminated in severe penalties, including a 10-point deduction for Juventus in Serie A, further complicating their competitive standing. Additionally, UEFA imposed a ban on the club from participating in European competitions for the current season, reflecting the serious nature of the infractions.
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(With AP inputs)