Serie A 2020-21: Cristiano Ronaldo ruled out of Atalanta clash, here's why

Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese football sensation who plays for Juventus. He has won five Ballon d'Or titles and is one of the highest-paid footballers in the world, alongside Lionel Messi. He is struggling to make an impact for the side this season.

Portuguese football sensation Cristiano Ronaldo still has a vital role to play for Juventus. While the Turin-based club is struggling for a title success this season, it has suffered a setback.

Ahead of Juventus's next game in Atalanta on Sunday, Ronaldo has been ruled out due to a thigh injury. Meanwhile, Juventus boss Andrea Pirlo has insisted that Ronaldo's workload management is of utmost importance, as playing too many matches could lead to such setbacks.

"There is a big absence and it is Cristiano. He has not been able to recover from a thigh problem. We decided to let him rest and try to recover for Wednesday's match," Pirlo said during the pre-match press conference, reports Reuters.

"Speaking with his coach, with him and with the doctor, it was too risky to bring him to push. He has played too many matches, even those with the national team," added Pirlo.

Juventus is currently placed third in the Serie A table, 12 points behind leader Inter Milan. The side is not in contention of winning any other significant title, having won just the Supercoppa Italiana during the pre-season.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to be the leading goal-scorer of the Serie A season. He has currently scored 25 goals this season and is three goals ahead of second-placed Romelu Lukaku, while the Portuguese would be eyeing his first Golden Boot in Turin.