Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praises Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo received praise from manager Carlo Ancelotti

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has been praised by Carlo Ancelotti as a “one-off” in terms of work rate and professionalism. The Italian has coached or played with players like Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, Marco van Basten, and Fabio Cannavaro, but says Cristiano is the best player he has seen play the game.

Although the Ballon d’Or winner has had a dip in form recently, Ancelotti backed the Portuguese to return to his best because of his incredible work ethic and dedication.

In an interview with FIFA.com, Ancelotti said, “A lot of people would be really surprised by him (Cristiano Ronaldo). As I’ve said many times before, he’s a player who’s a one-off in terms of professionalism and responsibility, even at this level.

“He was born with extraordinary talent, but he squeezes the juice from and works on that talent thanks to a level of drive I’ve seen in few other players.”

The three-time Champions League winning manager also said he preferred to watch Cristiano over Zinedine Zidane in matches.

“Zidane was the player I most enjoyed in training, but Ronaldo’s the one I enjoy most in matches – he scores in virtually every game!”

Real Madrid who are in second place in the La Liga points table will return to the top if they manage to beat Barcelona in the upcoming El Clasico.