Xabi Alonso has admitted that he has no personal relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, but does concede that they have a great professional respect.
The former Liverpool midfielder believes that the Portuguese international is a key member of Los Blancos' side, but acknowledges that off the pitch, they do not get along.
“Between him and me there is appreciation and professional respect,” he told ETB. “Clearly not everyone in the locker room are friends of mine and outside there is almost no relationship between us.
“But inside the dressing room, we get along. Cristiano is no diva.
“He is a very ambitious person and has strong self-belief. He is an important player for the team.”
He also commented on the kinship he has with Coach Jose Mourinho.
“I am always learning from Mourinho,” he said. “He is very demanding and takes care of all the details.
“People think they know him, but they only see his outside image. I know him inside the dressing room, and he's very different.”
