Despite being on the receiving end for some criticism after gesturing to the Barcelona fans after scoring a goal at the Camp Nou on Sunday, Cristiano Ronaldo remains an idol for certain Real Madrid fans and players.
One of those players is French International Raphael Varane who has hailed the former Manchester United winger as an a example to followa
Not only does Varane believe that Ronaldo is an example on the pitch, but also as a human being. Varanea s praise for the three-time Ballon da Or winner comes right after current LFP chief Javier Tebas said that Ronaldo should be banned or fined for that disrespectful celebration.
Speaking to La Voix du Nord, he said: “This is a superstar. But also a very professional guy; always listen to your body to be on top physically.
“This is an outstanding competitor, always 200 per cent, an example to follow in everyday life.”
Rated as one of the best young central defenders in the world at the moment, Varane found life difficult in his first year at Madrid, but established himself firmly under Jose Mourinho.
Under Carlo Ancelotti, however, the Frenchman was once again placed on the bench for most games, but has once again found his way into the first team and has lready made 34 first team appearances for Madrid this season.
With so much potential, Varane, who is only 21 years of age at the moment, is bound to want more first team action and has been linked with a host of English clubs including Chelsea and Manchester United. But, the Frenchman maintains he is enjoying life at the Santiago Bernabeu.
He added: “I feel progress this season, including going through difficult times. This is where we learn the most.
“I turned a corner mentally. I can progress in a lot of areas, but what I would like is to impose my mark in the team.
“It’s a goal that I try to move forward. When you are at Real, it’s a challenge every day. I’m like that, I need these high goals to keep moving forward.”
Madrid are currently 4 points behind fierce rivals Barcelona with ten games remaining. The first of those games will be against 19th place Granada at home.