Cristiano Ronaldo talks Real Madrid, Mbappe, Bellingham, Kroos, Pepe – ‘Best club ever in history’ | OneFootball

It has been more than six years since Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid, in favour of a move to Juventus.

Although the Spanish giants have continued to dominate European football, they have never quite been the same.

Ronaldo, after all, was the beating heart of the Real Madrid team, helping the club win countless titles, including four Champions League titles.

Ronaldo expresses love for Real Madrid

Currently plying his trade for Al Nassr, Ronaldo is in the final stages of his career. However, the Portuguese international still harbours great respect for his former club.

In fact, in a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, Ronaldo hailed Real Madrid as the best club in the history of football while professing his love for the club.

“Real Madrid is the best club ever in history,” said Ronaldo. “I love Real Madrid. I was so happy to play there.”

Formerly of Man United, Ronaldo played for Real Madrid for nine years, during which he made almost 450 appearances. He racked up a whopping 450 goals and 131 assists.

“I became the all-time scorer at the club, we won four Champions League, it was a pleasure,” he added.

Best player to ever play for Real Madrid? (Photo by BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP via Getty Images)

Talking about the pressure he felt when he joined Real Madrid, Ronaldo said, “I knew I would do good. I believe in myself. It was difficult with an adaptation but I was going to play for the best club in the world.”

Ronaldo on Kroos, Mbappe & Pepe

Ronaldo went on to offer his thoughts on some of the former Real Madrid players he has played with in the past.

Starting with Toni Kroos and his surprise retirement this summer, Ronaldo stated, “It’s the way he sees it, we have to respect him. I respect his decision. He could play a few years more, but that’s his decision.”

The Portuguese sensation also talked about his compatriot and former Real Madrid defender Pepe, adding, “He’s boss on the pitch and outside the pitch he’s a great guy.”

Meanwhile, Ronaldo backed Real Madrid’s new signing Kylian Mbappe to do well at the club while also praising coach Carlo Ancelotti and president Florentino Perez.

“I think he will do well. They have a great coach, the president,” said Ronaldo. “I think he can be the best golden ball. He, Haaland, Bellingham. Also Lamine Yamal.”

When asked about Real Madrid’s recent success and their ongoing transition process, Ronaldo said, “They are looking very good. They feel no pressure. They say ‘lucky’ but no, it has a different aura.”