Cristiano Ronaldo warns Juventus to respect Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo has warned Juventus to respect Manchester United – even after his former club’s troubled start to the season.

Ronaldo returns to Old Trafford on Tuesday night knowing victory will virtually secure Juve’s place in the knockout stages of the Champions League.

The Italian champions have won all but one of their games in all competitions this season, compared to United’s record of just one win in their last six.

But Ronaldo insists Max Allegri’s side will be punished if they take Jose Mourinho lightly.

“Manchester - they are good team, play at home, it will be tough for us,” said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. “We have our weapons. We are Juventus, we know it will be tough, but I think we have a chance.

“If we play in a good way, the way the coach wants, we have a good chance to win.

“We have to respect United – a fantastic team, an experienced coach - but I expect and look forward that Juventus will win the game.”

While United are struggling, another of Ronaldo’s former clubs Real Madrid are facing a crisis of their own.

But the 33-year-old diplomatically avoided weighing in on the problems at the Bernabeu and Julen Lopetegui’s position comes under serious threat.

“It’s not up to me to speak about Real,” he said. “People know my history. It’s not the right moment. We’re focusing tomorrow.

“If Juventus win, we are virtually guaranteed passage through. I’m not here to talk about other teams.

“I don’t want to compare Real with Juventus. Both unbelievable teams, fantastic clubs. I did my journey at Real, now a new chapter.

“Juventus are one of the best clubs in the world. I’m glad to play here in Manchester, Real and now at Juve. I’m a happy man and a lucky man too.”

On his return to Old Trafford, Ronaldo added: “It’s a huge thing to come back. I remember what it was like in Manchester.

“My history - we won lots of trophies, cups, leagues, the Champions League.

“I remember the support of the fans and Sir Alex Ferguson. I will never forget him. He was a huge lift in my career and I express best wishes to him.

“When I knew we would play Manchester United, it was huge for me.”