Ronaldo ready to thrive under pressure

Cristiano Ronaldo knows the pressure will be on for him next season following his world-record switch to Real Madrid, but he is confident he can rise to the challenge.

Madrid smashed the previous world transfer record by a considerable margin after splashing out £80m to bring the Portugal international to Spain from Manchester United this summer.

Spending that amount of money on one player during a global financial crisis has seen Madrid receive criticism from figures both inside and outside the sporting world, and there will be no hiding place for Ronaldo next season as he attempts to justify his huge price tag.

The reigning FIFA World Player of the Year knows the spotlight will be even more intense for him over the coming campaign, but he believes that La Liga will soon see the best of him.

“I know I’ll feel more pressure here than at Manchester United, but I have faith in myself and I’m ambitious. I want the league to begin so I can do my absolute best,” said the Portugal international, who knows he will have to adapt to a new style of play in Spain after a hugely successful stint in England with United.

“I expect a different league of course. I played six years in the Premier League and it’s very difficult. It’s faster and players are stronger. It’s very competitive here as well,” he added.