Top 5 candidates to win the Capocannoniere this season
By John Vaccaro
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is the only player in my top 5 this year who was also one of my candidates to win the Capocannoniere last season (and I’m picking him to finish in the same place I did last year). There’s a good reason for that. While most of last year’s top 5 disappointed or ended up in tough situations (some self-inflicted), Ronaldo thrived at his new club. His 21 goals were good for 4th in Serie A last season and his situation looks like it will only get better this season.
Last year his scoring tally was hindered by a conservative, defensive style of play implemented by Massimiliano Allegri and Juve’s general struggles after they had clinched the Scudetto. It is unlikely that either of those factors will be issues this year.
Maurizio Sarri is know for his attacking style, which should open up a ton of opportunities for Ronaldo to score, especially against Serie A’s lesser teams. Juve didn’t really run up the score against outmatched opposition last year, but Sarri will be completely comfortable to watch his team to continue attacking after they have already secured the lead.
Juve also shouldn’t have such an easy path to the Scudetto next year, which will mean Ronaldo will actually need to score after the month of March.
Ronaldo also has a couple of new teammates in Adrien Rabiot and Aaron Ramsey who should be able to help open up opportunities for him to score. With those two playing alongside Morale Pjanic, Juve’s midfield will be able to more consistently create for the attack and give Ronaldo the types of chances he’s never had any trouble finishing. We shouldn’t be he least bit surprised if Ronaldo’s goal count jumps up to at least 25 this year.