Shares in top-tier Italian football club Juventus fell sharply on Friday, with a trader attributing the move to rape allegations against its recently acquired star player Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo, signed to Juventus from Real Madrid in July for 100 million euros, has denied the allegations.
Juventus shares fell 7 per cent in the stock exchange.
The stock is down 13 per cent since the allegations first emerged on Tuesday.
Selling pressure was compounded by statements by sponsors Nike Inc and Electronic Arts Inc, which on Thursday expressed their concern.
“We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation,” Nike said.
Meanwhile, Juve boss, Max Allegri, has revealed that Ronaldo could start against Udinese on Saturday.
He said: “Tomorrow I could go with a front three of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala and Cristiano Ronaldo, or alternatively one of them could be rested. Juan Cuadrado is in good form and his assist the other night has provided a boost.”
