Marchisio believes Ronaldo 'has changed his style of play' since joining Juve

Claudio Marchisio believes Cristiano Ronaldo “has changed his style of play” since joining Juventus in the summer.

The Zenit St Petersburg midfielder spent his entire career with the Bianconeri before moving this summer, and he spoke to Sky about Friday’s match with Inter.

The interview will be released in full on the day, but the broadcaster has released a preview this afternoon.

“It’ll be a very important big match,” Marchisio said.

“But it’s only one game because there’s still a long way to go. It’ll be an important match for both teams though, as it’s two very strong teams, who are aiming for big objectives, facing each other.

“Mauro Icardi and Ronaldo? They always live up to expectations in these big matches, even if they’re two completely different players.

“Icardi can be invisible in a game for 90 minutes but, as happened against Barcelona, he only needs one chance to score. He’s one of the best in the world in that regard.

“Ronaldo has changed his style of play in Italy, he often comes deep to get the ball, he’s part of the build-up and he’s always involved with goals or assists. He’s crucial for Juventus.

“They’re both great champions, but I’d also put my trust in Giorgio [Chiellini] in these big games. He comes from defence and scores with a header.”

Juve are eight points clear at the top of Serie A, with seemingly only Napoli and Inter in a position to challenge them.

“Napoli have proved to be a big team in recent years, they’re showing they can hold on to the highest positions right until the end of the season.

“Inter are showing that too, especially this year, even if they’re lacking a lot and we’ll need to see how it goes later.

“Napoli have surprised me, after the work done by [Maurizio] Sarri in recent years there’s important motivation.

“[Carlo] Ancelotti has managed to continue that while still doing well, and Napoli will fight to the end for the league.”