Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo recently took part in a full training session, sparking rumors he could be ready to return to action as soon as May 5, Champions League semifinal match against Manchester City.

The 31-year-old star sat out last week's scoreless tie at Etihad Stadium with a thigh injury, as well as April 30's 1-0 Primera Division win over Real Sociedad.

Ronaldo Takes Part in Full Team Practice

But the team captain was recently spotted going through drills with all his teammates for the first time since sustaining the injury against Villarreal last month.

His return would be a welcome site for the Los Blancos. The veteran striker has 47 goals this season, including an eye-popping 16 in Champions League play. He almost singlehandedly led past Wolfsburg in the quarterfinals.

Though out of action for the last two weeks, Ronaldo recently had plenty to say about the direction of the team and franchise.

Ronaldo recently shared he feels the players feel "more appreciated" under recently installed coach Zinedine Zidane, who replaced the fired Rafael Benitez around the New Year.

Ronaldo Pushing for Zidane as Permanent Coach

"We feel his affection," he added. "We know he's in a period of adaptation, but things have come together very quickly and I'm really happy for him."

Zidane has guided Real Madrid to a string of 10 straight La Liga wins, paving the way for them to keep pace with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona with games to come against Valencia and Deportivo La Coruna.

In Ronaldo's on-the-field absence, veteran Karim Benzema has stepped up to lead the charge, though a hamstring could now slow him down a bit.

Related