Zidane shrugs off Ronaldo exit talk

Zinedine Zidane says talk of Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Real Madrid will not detract from celebrations over a third consecutive Champions League crown.

Gareth Bale struck twice from the bench as Loris Karius' errors proved key in Madrid's 3-1 win over Liverpool in Kiev on Saturday.

But Ronaldo's post-match bombshell, the Portugal star indicating he is considering moving on from Madrid, will dominate the headlines.

Zidane, however, shrugged off reports Ronaldo could seek a Santiago Bernabeu exit after helping the LaLiga giants to four Champions League crowns in five years.

"We do not think about that," said the Frenchman.

"Only about what we are doing. Then we'll see what happens. 

"As I always say, Ronaldo must stay with Madrid. 'Yes or yes', as we say in Spanish."

Questioned further on Ronaldo's future, Zidane added: "I just explained the situation with Cris. He must stay with us. He will stay with us. But, as usual, we have to see what happens.

"There are no words to describe what he has achieved with Real Madrid. So, he must stay, but we have to wait and see.

"What can I say? Nothing is going to change. If those were his words, well, that's what he said. That's it. We have to make the most of this particular moment in time.

"Perhaps, in three or four days' time, he might say something else but if you'll allow me to say what I feel, I think it's important to consider our achievements."

 

26 May 2018

Zidane is the first coach to record three consecutive titles in Europe's premier competition and he hailed the work of his side over recent years. 

"We have no words. It's what this team has. Talent and work," said Zidane. 

"We have hope and desire to do things well. We did it again.

"I've told the players to enjoy it because this is not going to be seen again."