Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafa Benitez Clash Over Real Madrid Training Methods
Cristiano Ronaldo is reported to be unhappy with new coach Rafa Benitez’s training methods at Real Madrid.
Following an article from The Inquisitr in May, the Portuguese striker continued to vent his frustration at Real Madrid.
The new Spanish season is yet to start, and Cristiano Ronaldo has taken exception to some of Benitez’s training techniques. Ronaldo was alleged to have been angered by Benitez’s refereeing decisions in a routine training match. Spanish TV cameras recorded the Portuguese striker as he said, “He gives everything against the Portuguese.”
The Spanish newspaper, AS, also reported that the player was unhappy with Benitez’s training drill, where he instructed Cristiano Ronaldo, and fellow players to hit a crossbar from long range. The striker was heard saying, “It’s meant to be the ball in there, in the net. Not this s—.”
Real Madrid, who are currently in Australia for pre-season training, are preparing for a friendly match with Manchester City in Melbourne this Friday. However, it seems the unhappiness from Ronaldo has disrupted preparations for one of the most anticipated friendly matches of the pre-season calendar.
Cristiano Ronaldo – whose unhappiness at Madrid has been a source of transfer speculation all summer – has regularly tweeted and promoted support for previous coach Carlo Ancelotti, who left the job at the end of last season. The rift between the superstar player and his new coach has gained media attention ever since, with rumors circulating about Ronaldo possibly moving to new pastures. Many fans have speculated that he may move back to his former club, Manchester United.
Great coach and amazing person. Hope we work together next season. pic.twitter.com/HqHHGjGGUH
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 23, 2015
Benitez seemed unfazed by speculation of Ronaldo’s unhappiness. He used a press conference in Australia to praise Ronaldo, who is considered one of the world’s greatest players. The Spaniard told the AS, “Fortunately after working with him you can see how competitive he is and how keen he is to win. He has great quality and that’s what makes him the best player in the world. I wish all the players had the same enthusiasm to compete and win. He shows this on a day by day basis and I’m delighted with him.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has often been lauded as the world’s greatest football talent. Board members and fans alike are mindful of his special status at the club, one that rivals fellow player Lionel Messi at Barcelona.
Since his much-publicized move from Manchester United in 2009, Ronaldo has made 300 appearances for Real Madrid in all competitions and has scored 313 goals. Cristiano Ronaldo was also the recipient of the FIFA Ballon d’Or in 2013 and 2014.
[Photo By Michael Regan / Getty Images]
