Sporting CP rename academy after Juventus star Ronaldo

Sporting CP have renamed their academy after Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo to honour their most famous graduate and “the best player in the world”.

The Portuguese giants confirmed on Monday afternoon their youth set-up would go by the name of Academia Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo came through the system at Sporting before being sold to Manchester United.

They said in a statement: “The good son makes the house and the house that made Cristiano Ronaldo now welcomes his name in honour of the one who became the best Portuguese player of all time, the best player in the world, awarded with five Ballons d’Or and captain of the European and Nations League champions.

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“The Academy will thus immortalise the name of the greatest symbol ever formed and that will be an inspiration to follow for all the youngest talents.”

Ronaldo made his debut in 2002 and less than a year later had attracted the attentions of Manchester United before the Red Devils snapped him up in the hours after a pre-season friendly.