Ronaldo from 'another planet', says Zidane

Zinedine Zidane lauded Cristiano Ronaldo, saying the remarkable Real Madrid star was the world's best.

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo is from another planet and is the world's best, coach Zinedine Zidane said.

Ronaldo, 32, enjoyed another stellar season in 2016-17, scoring 42 goals in all competitions, helping Madrid win La-Liga and the Champions League.

As he also praised Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema, Zidane said Ronaldo was remarkable. "Ramos is the leader, Cristiano is from another planet and Benzema is pure talent," Zidane said.

Zidane managed Ronaldo's playing time last season, with the Portugal international making 29 league appearances – his fewest since his first Madrid campaign in 2009-10.

The Frenchman praised Ronaldo for understanding, saying: "It was easy to persuade him.

"He's a very intelligent guy and he knows himself. Cristiano pushes his team-mates on. He's the best."

On his team's style, Zidane said he wanted Madrid, who hosts Levante in La-Liga on Saturday, to play a possession-based game, even against rival Barcelona.

"I have so many extraordinary players that I want the team to play well," he said. "I am looking for the best style and that is to have more possession than your opponent, even against Barcelona."