Cristiano Ronaldo crucial to Real Madrid's success, says coach Rafael Benitez

Cristiano Ronaldo very crucial for our functioning, says Benitez

Rafael Benitez, the new Los Blancos manager, stated in an interview to Real Madrid TV that Cristiano Ronaldo is a player who is “fundamental” to the club’s functioning in their pursuit for silverware after a trophyless year last season.

They are currently on tour in Australia for the International Champions Cup, which also features English side Manchester City and Serie A club AS Roma. According to Spanish daily Marca, Benitez will deploy the Portuguese star out on the left side which he favours while Bale is touted to play in a more central attacking role this season.

Real Madrid’s performance dependent on Ronaldo: Benitez

Speaking to Real Madrid TV, he said, “He's a fundamental player for us. It's great that he's here with all the group. By meeting him and starting to exchange our thoughts with each other, we will be able to progress in terms of the dynamic of the group and get to know him better, so as to get the best out of him and so that the team can make the most of everything he has to offer”

“I want Real Madrid to be Real Madrid. I want us to be a team that go out to win every game, that take the initiative, are assertive, that attack as well as in recent years and that defend a little bit better, to achieve that balance that will enable us to win more games and have a greater chance of winning trophies,” he told Real Madrid TV.

Benitez also stressed the importance of the pre-season and said, “Pre-seasons are there to work, to get to know each other, and the conditions we have are good. The fact that it isn't as hot as in other places means that you can really work hard and it's a great help to us that the pitch is in the right condition to circulate the ball and for the kind of intensity with which we want to do things”, he added while speaking to Real Madrid TV.

Benitez has kind words for Casillas

The Real Madrid coach also had only good things to say about former goalkeeper and club legend Iker Casillas.

“Iker is a living legend at Real Madrid and the best goalkeeper in the club's history. We all know how important he has always been. He has made the decision to leave and to go to another club. As coach, I have to respect that decision and wish him the very best of luck,” he said in his interview with Real Madrid TV.

“I believe that he will remain in the hearts of all Madridistas and from here on I wish him success, I hope that everything goes really well for him and that he enjoys being at a great club and in a great city. There's not much more to say, except to express my respect and admiration for him” he said, according to Real Madrid TV.