Cristiano Ronaldo: I was sad about Real Madrid exit too
Back in Spain on Monday to pick up a career achievement award, the ex-Real star discussed his former club, the Spanish capital, his first year at Juve...
Cristiano Ronaldo was back in the Spanish capital on Monday to receive the 'MARCA Leyenda' career achievement award, at a ceremony attended by figures including the Portuguese ambassador to Spain and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.
Before collecting the accolade, the former Madrid star, who left the club for Juventus in a 117m-euro deal last summer, took part in a Q&A session with children decked out in the shirts of all the teams he has represented throughout his playing days.
Told by one of the youngsters that he was very sad to see him depart the Santiago Bernabéu, Cristiano responded: "I was [sad] too."
Cristiano Ronaldo's comments:
Returning to Madrid: "I come to Madrid a lot. It's a city that has had a big impact on me, not just in footballing terms, but also on a personal level. I've got gyms, we're finishing off the hotel, the hair clinic... Clearly it [Real Madrid] is a club that has had a big impact on my life."
Going after his sixth Ballon d'Or: "I hope I can win it. The main thing is that my career has continued to go well after Madrid. It isn't easy leaving Madrid as I did - after nine years, at the age of 33... and it [2018/19] was a really good year for me because I won Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Nations League with Portugal. It's one of the best seasons I've had, both individually and collectively."
Manchester and Madrid: "I miss both, but I was in Madrid for longer. My kids grew up here and my partner is from here, so I miss Madrid more."
Most important trophy: "Every trophy is important, but maybe the European Championship [with Portugal in 2016] is the most important one of my career. There's something particularly special about it; I guess it's the most special trophy I've won in my career. It's not the same as winning [silverware] with your club: the emotions are stronger, so it's much more special winning something with your country."
Conquering Europe with Juventus next season: "We'll try to win the Champions League, but it's very difficult because every club wants to win it. Only one team can win it, and hopefully that team is Juve."