Cristiano Ronaldo is far from his best ―Savio

CRISTIANO Ronaldo is not performing anywhere near the high level that he has set himself this season.

That is the view of former Real Madrid star Savio, who claims the Portugal international has been out of kilter this season.

The 32-year-old has still managed to find the back of the net 32 times, but spread over 40 appearances, it represents a dip in form compared to his recent feats.

However, Savio does still believe Ronaldo has plenty to offer Real Madrid, as they seek to qualify for their third Champions League final in four seasons.

‘We are accustomed to seeing Cristiano Ronaldo score 40, 50, 60 goals every year,’ the Brazilian told Omnisport.

‘It’s natural and also normal in football, sometimes, to go down or to go up, to alternate your performance.

‘Cristiano Ronaldo is not in the best rhythm this season, like in previous ones. But if you check Cristiano’s numbers, they still are very important numbers, very strong numbers.

‘Maybe it’s his physical form, I don’t know… but it’s difficult to maintain such a regular and high performance for five, six, seven seasons. But I think he still has a lot of football to give.’

Real Madrid welcome city rivals Atletico to the Bernabeu in the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday evening.

The pair have met in the final in two of the last three seasons, with Madrid winning after extra-time on both occasions.

 RONALDO AT REAL

2009-10 – Appearances: 35   Goals: 33

2010-11 –  Appearances: 54 Goals: 53

2011-12 –  Appearances: 55 Goals: 60

2012-13 –  Appearances: 55 Goals: 55

2013-14 – Appearances: 47 Goals: 51

2014-15 – Appearances: 54 Goals: 61

2015-16 – Appearances: 48 Goals:51

2016-17* – Appearances: 40 Goals: 32

 

SOURCE: BBC SPORT