Carlo Ancelotti reflects on working with Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, praising the Portuguese star’s unmatched professionalism, preparation, and influence on and off the pitch. "I’ve never seen a player like him," says the Italian coach.

Cristiano Ronaldo shone at Real Madrid, among other clubs, and one of the key figures during his most successful years at the Santiago Bernabéu was Carlo Ancelotti.

The Italian manager, who led Real Madrid between 2013 and 2015 and returned to the club in 2021 shared glowing praise for the Portuguese forward in a recent interview with Swiss radio RSI, offering rare insight into what it was like to work alongside one of football’s all-time greats.

Ancelotti’s admiration for Ronaldo extends far beyond his goal-scoring numbers or iconic status. It is rooted in daily interactions on the training ground, in the dressing room, and in the countless hours of preparation that often go unseen by fans.

"Ronaldo is an extraordinary talent, both physically and technically it’s just his nature… And he complemented those qualities with a unique level of seriousness and professionalism," said Ancelotti. "I’ve never seen a player so attentive, prepared, focused, and concentrated. He’s definitely a role model for others when it comes to preparation."

During Ancelotti’s first spell at Real Madrid, Ronaldo was at the absolute peak of his powers. Under the Italian’s guidance, Ronaldo helped lead the club to its long-awaited tenth Champions League title the historic La Décima in 2014. That season, Ronaldo scored a staggering 51 goals in 47 appearances across all competitions, including 17 goals in the Champions League a record at the time.

Ancelotti recalled how Ronaldo’s drive and discipline stood out even in a star-studded squad filled with world-class talent. Whether it was his punctuality, his approach to recovery, or his relentless desire to improve, Ronaldo’s influence was palpable. "Cristiano didn’t just train hard he trained smart. He knew exactly how to manage his body, how to peak at the right moments. That level of self-awareness and commitment is extremely rare, even at the highest level," Ancelotti added.

Despite his larger-than-life image and global fame, Ronaldo was also known within the dressing room for being a vocal leader someone who pushed his teammates and held high standards. "He was never satisfied," said Ancelotti. "Even after scoring a hat-trick, he would look at what he could’ve done better. That hunger, that mentality it’s what made him stand out."

Ronaldo’s impact at Real Madrid during Ancelotti’s tenure was immense. He not only delivered trophies but also elevated the overall standards at the club. The partnership between the two brought out the best in both men Ancelotti provided the calm, strategic leadership, while Ronaldo embodied execution and excellence on the pitch.

Now at 39 years old and playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo continues to defy expectations. His physical condition remains exceptional, and he still delivers match-winning performances on a regular basis. For Ancelotti, it comes as no surprise. "With his mentality and work ethic, he could play at the top level for as long as he wants. Age doesn’t define Cristiano his discipline does."

Ancelotti also touched on Ronaldo’s influence off the pitch, highlighting how younger players looked up to him. "For the next generation of players, Ronaldo is more than just a name. He’s proof that talent alone isn’t enough it’s about how you work, how you live, how seriously you take every aspect of your career."

Even now, years after their time together in Madrid, Ancelotti speaks about Ronaldo with genuine respect and admiration not just for the records he broke or the trophies he won, but for the example he set and the professionalism he brought day in and day out.