Zidane: Cristiano is the best in history

CAIRO – 8 December 2017: Cristiano Ronaldo claimed that he now, after winning his fifth Ballon d’Or, feels that he is the best in history, a statement that has provoked all kinds of responses.

Hence, at a press conference prior to Madrid’s game against Sevilla at Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, Zidane was asked for his thoughts on Ronaldo’s statements.

The coach again gave his support to Cristiano by saying: "Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo is the best in the history of football because what he is doing has not been done by anyone, and what he is going to do will be impressive."

Zidane continued with his praise: "A lot of things have been said about him and there are no more words to define him; what he's doing every day on the field is phenomenal, a player can come and be here 10, 15, 20 years and in the end he will not do what he did here. He became the history of the club and I hope he continues here until he retires, doing as he does."

Zidane, who won the Ballon d'Or in 1998, smiled when asked if he or Ronaldo was the better player.

"I was clearly better. If I have to choose, I choose myself," Zidane said. "But seriously, you know I think Cristiano is much better, although I had a good career. There are no more words to define him. What he does every day, every game, is phenomenal. He has made history at this club, and keeps doing that…” according to ESPN’s website.

Zidane sent a message to the Madrid fans, asking them to support the team in a phase of the season in which things are not going exactly as they would like.

"I think it's very important and I send a message to our fans, the truth that has always been behind the club, the team and the players, Saturday’s game is an important game and we want the fans behind us.”

Zidane also spoke about Gareth Bale, Real Madrid`s winger and his ability to return to the team’s squad.

"Gareth has done just a part of the session with us," he said. "He will not be ready tomorrow. The idea is that he travels with us to the Club World Cup and we will see if he can be with us in the first game."