Real Madrid legend Raul has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the outstanding player in world football and warned his former team Schalke that they are in for a tough task on Wednesday night.
The 36-year-old, who spent 16 years at the Santiago Bernabeu before making a switch to the Bundesliga, said Ronaldo’s goal scoring feats and consistency mean he is the world’s best.
Speaking to Schalke’s official website, he said: “Cristiano Ronaldo is without question the best player at the moment. He is currently experiencing the strongest phase of his career. His achievements and his consistency stand out.”
The former Spain forward, who now plys his trade in Qatar, also had special words of praise for Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos. “Xabi Alonso is also extremely important for the team. He is the puppet master in midfield, a kind of conductor. But there are also many other great personalities such as Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos,” he stated.
When asked what Schalke have to do to beat the nine-time European Cup winners, Raul said each player must give 120%.
“I believe that Schalke has to play beyond its limits in both games. Each player on the pitch needs to be at 120% and play at their full potential. And that little bit of luck of course will help.”
