Cristiano Ronaldo’s ill relationship with former Los Blancos manager Rafael Benitez was no kept secret, and on Sunday, the 30-year-old opened up about his bond with the Spaniard.
The Portuguese ace reportedly handed Real Madrid president Florentino Perez an ultimatum that either he [Cristiano] or Rafa has to go, whilst also insisting that the Liga BBVA giants will win nothing under the former Napoli boss’ tutelage.
After the 10-time Champions League winners’ 5-1 win over Sporting Gijon, Ronaldo claimed to hold no bad opinion of Benitez, though, but was full of praise for new boss Zinedine Zidane and the French legend’s attacking-based football tactics.
"Zidane has been a boost for the team,” said Cristiano.
"Truthfully, with some coaches you have more empathy than others. The players feel more empathy for Zidane."
"I did my job naturally under Benitez. I was serious and did the best for the club, independent of the person who is in charge of the team.
"I have never had a bad opinion of Rafa. He always did the best for Madrid, but he sees football in a different way from Zizou."
It is widely believed that having lost the backing of the dressing room, many Real Madrid players acted to force out Benitez from the managerial post, having witnessed a dip in form.
He was eventually sacked by Perez, but in similar fashion to Ronaldo, Jese Rodriguez insisted that no player acted to sabotage Rafa’s position at Les Merengues.
"We did not act behind Benítez's back. I wish him all the best.
"Every manager is different, they have their own philosophy, sometimes it goes well and sometimes it doesn't. It didn't with Benítez and now the team is doing better.
"I don't like to draw comparisons. Zidane is closer to the players, he knows the players better because he was one, he is a great manager and is going to show that with us.
"My relationship with Zizou has been good for the last two years, when he was assistant manager."
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