Juventus manager Andrea Pirlo has admitted that speculation over Cristiano Ronaldo's future is natural after the Old Lady's Champions League exit.
Juve's European hopes were dashed for another year after Porto dumped them out in the last-16 stage, and following their elimination, Ronaldo's future has persistently been called into question.
The 36-year-old has been tipped to complete a sensational return to either Real Madrid or Manchester United, and while Pirlo accepts that such rumours are bound to be swirling, he has insisted his star attacker is "fine" after their European heartbreak.
Speaking to reporters at a press conference, Pirlo said: "Ronaldo is fine. It's natural he is disappointed by what happened the other night, as is everyone. He trained well and has recovered to play tomorrow night.
"It's natural there are rumours after the elimination, as he is the most important player in the world along with Lionel Messi. He has always done well for us, scoring 90-odd goals and more than proved his worth.
"The project started in recent years planned the enrichment of the squad with players of a certain pedigree. It's impossible to create a team just of young players. This was the initial project and it will be for the future as well."
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has struck 27 goals in 32 games across all competitions this season, and his deal in Turin is set to expire at the end of next season.
