FA JUSTICE FOR JOSE
against Valencia in the Champions League a month ago.
Even with his reputation on the line with the rape allegation, Ronaldo will be afforded a hero’s reception from both sets of fans when he emerges from the tunnel tomorrow, just as he was on his last visit to Old Trafford, with Real Madrid in 2013.
On that occasion, he scored the winner that knocked out United in what would prove to be Sir Alex Ferguson’s final Champions League game, although out of respect he did not celebrate the goal.
Asked if he would show the same deference tonight should he score, Ronaldo, whose 292 appearances for United brought 118 goals, replied: “My reaction will be the same. It’s special for me to return to Manchester. Here I have many memories of victories and affection, and in particular with Sir Alex Ferguson, to whom I send a big hug. He’s a person who helped me so much.
“It’s going to be a tough match. Manchester United are strong, but if we play the way the coach wants, we’ve a good chance to win. But we can’t underestimate our opponents.”
After nine years, five Champions League titles, two La Liga triumphs, 438 appearances and 450 goals, Ronaldo ended his association with Real in July with a £99million switch to Juve.
“I’m happy to be at such a great team like Juventus,” he said. “It’s a new chapter in my life after Manchester United and Real Madrid.
“I’m still getting used to things, but everyone from team-mates to people at the club have helped me settle in and I’m really enjoying the experience.” JOSE MOURINHO has escaped a touchline ban following his Stamford Bridge bust-up.
But the man at the centre of the row, Chelsea coach Marco Ianni, has been charged with improper conduct by the FA and faces a fine and disciplinary action.
In a letter from the FA, Mourinho (right) was “formally reminded of his responsibilities” following the incident sparked by Ianni celebrating in front of the Manchester United manager after Chelsea’s injury-time equaliser on Saturday.
However, the incident could still count against him as he faces another FA charge having been filmed swearing in Portuguese on the touchline after the Reds’ win against Newcastle. The FA take into account previous bad behaviour.
But football chiefs are in a dilemma over what punishment to impose on Ianni, who normally sits in the stands in his role as an analyst and was not supposed to be on the touchline, which the FA have also taken a dim view of.
A touchline ban would be meaningless and as a minor figure in Maurizio Sarri’s backroom team, a big fine is unlikely.
He has until 6pm on Thursday to respond, with a three-man FA commission due to hear the case. Sarri and Chelsea have already apologised, while
Ianni has personally apologised.
The FA have written to both clubs giving a similar warning with “official reminders in terms of the behaviour expected of their staff and players at all times whilst in the technical area”.
Chelsea are currently conducting their own investigation and disciplinary process into Ianni’s behaviour, but will not be sacking him.
Mourinho said yesterday: “I don’t think he deserves to be sacked.”