Ronaldo's arrival at Juventus draws huge crowds

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Juventus’ record signing Cristiano Ronaldo has arrived in Turin on Monday, and thousands of fans were there to welcome him.

Ronaldo, who joined the Italian champions last week on a four-year, 100 million euro contract, insisted at his first news conference as a Juventus player that he was motivated by a new challenge and keen to step out of his comfort zone after nine years at Madrid.

Screenshot from Juventus Club's Twitter account

When he arrived at the Allianz Stadium for his medical on Monday, Ronaldo was greeted by hundreds of fans, who chanted his name and “Portaci la Champions” (“Bring us the Champions League trophy”).

"It was a stunning moment to be welcomed this way," said Ronaldo. "It increases your motivation to start work. I hope I can reward them."

Juventus supporters wait for Cristiano Ronaldo, who makes medical checks at the Juventus medical center in Turin, July 16, 2018. /VCG Photo

Ronaldo fever has swept Turin through since he shocked the world by moving to Juve, and many of the youngsters who came out to greet their new hero were wearing Juventus shirts emblazoned with his name and number – still his trademark 7.

Some fans got up as early as 04:30 a.m. local time to be at the stadium in time for his brief meet and greet.

Ronaldo will start training with Juventus on July 30, but has not yet confirmed if he will play in the MLS All-Star Game two days later, or face his former club in a friendly on August 4.

"I am ready for the first game of the season," said Ronaldo.

(With input from agency.)