Cristiano Ronaldo Reportedly Apologized to Real Madrid Players Who Weren't at His 'Level'
Real Madrid finds itself in quite a mess following a 0-1 loss to rival Atletico Madrid. The incident came after Antoine Griezmann’s lone goal in the second half. It was enough for Atletico to register their third consecutive win against their rivals.
Aside from the triumph, Atletico also made history by becoming the first side in La Liga to win three consecutive games at Bernabeu, per Sky Sports. On the other end, the loss gives Real Madrid practically no chance to catch up to the Catalans.
"Before you ask, the league is over," said Zidane during the press conference as quoted by Goal.com. "It was always difficult. I told the players yesterday that if we lose points it will be more difficult.”
Zidane was visibly frustrated and rightfully so. But he was not the only one. ESPN reports that Cristiano Ronaldo also had his own outburst following the loss but his actions may have done more damage to the team as it is.
"If they were all at my level we would be first," Ronaldo said referring to his teammates.
The rant was seen by many as something that tarnished Ronaldo's name but he did try to clear the air on his tirade, which he claims was taken out of context.
"I was referring to the physical level, not level of play. I am not better than any of my team-mates," explained the Portuguese star in a separate report from Sky Sports.
Despite the harsh comments from Zidane and Ronaldo, it is a reality that the team has to face. Real Madrid did churn out a subpar performance. Regardless, Zidane is not completely sold on giving up on the season.
"I'm not happy with the match and I'm not happy with the result," he continued. "The important thing for me and the team is to think about the next game,” says Zidane via Goal.com.
Los Blancos will not divert their focus on the UEFA Champions League though the road ahead may prove to be a tough one. With an injury-riddled roster, Zidane will have to find a way to tie loose ends.
The club is likely to face Atletic Madrid Wednesday without Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Pepe are detailed by Goal.com.
While the unity within Real Madrid is questionable, Zidane will have to hope that Ronaldo’s recent apology will be enough to fire up the ballclub and take their game to the next level.
Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid clash at the Ciudad de Valencia this March 2. Kickoff is at 3 p.m. ET.
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