Ronaldo's dramatic debut ends with goalkeeper in hospital

Cristiano Ronaldo's Serie A debut was marked not by a goal but by accidentally putting the opposing team's goalkeeper in hospital.

With the score locked at 2-2 late on in Juventus' match at Chievo Verona, Ronaldo collided with Stefano Sorrentino in a chaotic penalty area.

Sorrentino was knocked out cold briefly and there were an anxious few minutes as he received immediate treatment before being substituted.

The 39-year-old goalkeeper was immediately taken to the hospital and released on Sunday morning with a fractured nose, bruising to his left shoulder and whiplash.

Sorrentino was able to joke about the incident, posting a photo on Twitter with the caption: "Thanks for your messages of support, affection and esteem. We are a fantastic group and yesterday we almost achieved the feat: while CR7 got me in full!"
He also later revealed on the social media site that Ronaldo had been in touch: "I received a message of support and wishing me a speedy recovery from Cristiano Ronaldo. Thanks legend!"
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"If they (players) need help communicating in English, German, French or Spanish, he's always on hand to make them feel more comfortable."
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