Cristiano Ronaldo has urged the Spanish Press and the Real Madrid fans to come together in support of the team for the rest of the season.
Debate and criticism has surrounded the club in recent months in light of Jose Mourinho’s various clashes with colleagues, the latest of whom is Iker Casillas.
Following on from leading the side to a 4-0 second leg Copa del Rey win over Celta Vigo in the Last 16 last night, Ronaldo has taken the chance to urge unity.
“Enough of the criticising. That does not help anything. We have to be together. We are in contention for the Cup and Champions League,” declared the Portuguese to reporters, after his hat-trick against Celta made it 174 goals scored from his 172 appearances at the club.
“It is an honour for me to score so many goals with this club, but it is not only about my goals.
“After being reduced to 10 men, we reacted very well. The expulsion of Sergio was casual, no big deal. We are calm because we played well.
“We went into the game very well, scoring a goal in the second minute. We had control of the game. The goal was to win and progress to the next round and we are happy about doing that.
“We were a little more relaxed in the second half, knowing that the tie was almost concluded, but the game was still open because Celta only needed a goal to take us into extra-time then.
“I am in good form. We have trained very well since Christmas and we want to continue like this until the end of the championship. Now I feel the support of the Bernabeu.”
Ronaldo, who is suspended at the weekend, was asked for comment on rumours of a move away from Madrid.
“My future? I will not talk to other clubs now. I have a contract and I’m happy here, but in the world of football everything is possible.”
