(foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Cristiano Ronaldo’s mentality and professionalism, calling the Portuguese star a role model during an interview ahead of a pivotal Champions League clash.
Carlo Ancelotti has lauded Cristiano Ronaldo for his unmatched discipline and focus during their time together at Real Madrid, describing the Portuguese legend as a role model for all players.
Speaking in an interview with Swiss radio station RSI, the Real Madrid boss recalled Ronaldo’s remarkable contribution and professionalism during their shared stint from 2013 to 2015 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“Ronaldo is a great talent physically and technically, it's his nature... And he complemented these characteristics with unique seriousness and professionalism,” said Ancelotti. “I've never seen a player so attentive, prepared, concentrated, focused. He's a model for others, certainly, in terms of preparation.”
Ronaldo scored 112 goals and delivered 47 assists in just 101 matches under Ancelotti — averaging a goal contribution every 54 minutes — and helped Madrid lift their long-awaited tenth Champions League trophy, *La Décima*, in 2014.
Now playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the club’s all-time top scorer, with 450 goals in 438 appearances across all competitions.
Ancelotti’s praise comes on the eve of a decisive second leg in the Champions League quarter-finals, with Real Madrid trailing 3-0 to Arsenal. The Italian coach previously stated that a famous remontada is still possible at the Bernabeu.
Written by Barbara Cerar, Editor-in-Chief at en.nogomania.com. Follow us for more stories from international football.