Former Real Madrid captain Manuel Sanchís Hontiyuelo has given his opinion on the possible departure of Cristiano Ronaldo from the Bernabeu at the end of the season, saying that "If [Alfredo] Di Stefano left, after that, it is not the end of the world for anyone else to leave."
As the days go by and uncertainty increases about the future of the Portuguese forward, former players for the Spanish giants have been expressing their views on the subject.
One in particular is Sanchís, who made 523 appearances for 'Los Blancos' between 1983 to 2001, and the 52-year-old believes that a new contract for the former Manchester United man won't be necessary if Real's form doesn't improve.
"There is no need to increase his salary if Real Madrid have a complete stinker this season. He will be on his way to the exit [anyway]," he explained.
In spite of everything, the former defender did not hide his preference for the 32-year-old over rival Lionel Messi. "I am without a doubt with Cristiano," he admitted.
Meanwhile, Sanchís also criticised Real's recent transfer business and said that their struggles this season have shocked him, saying: "The squad had more depth a year ago. There is only a month left until the match against PSG and I hope something changes. I did not expect Madrid to lose as many points in the league as they have so far."
The Madrid club are currently in fourth-place in La Liga and a staggering 19 points behind leaders and eternal rivals Barcelona, although they do have a game in hand because of the Club World Cup.