Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Cristiano Ronaldo will play for Real Madrid in an exhibition match against Deportivo La Coruna on Thursday evening rather than attend UEFA's Champions League draw and Best Player in Europe award ceremony.
Ronaldo is one of three nominees, along with Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery and Barcelona's Lionel Messi, for the UEFA award which will be presented following a live vote by journalists.
However Madrid confirmed Ronaldo had been selected in a strong 20-player squad for the Trofeo Teresa Herrera match, ruling him out of the trip to Monaco.
It was anticipated, until today, that Ronaldo would be present for the UEFA gala.
He was the highest scorer in the Champions League last season, with 12 goals, but if the decision to stay away from Thursday's event was his, it could be that Ronaldo felt he stood little chance of picking up the award.
Messi scored 46 league goals for Barcelona in 2012/13, helping the club win back the Primera Division title from Madrid.
Ribery does not have a scoring record that matches up to Messi or Ronaldo, but his contribution was key as Bayern won the Champions League, Bundesliga and German cup.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments