MADRID: Real Madrid’s new coach Carlo Ancelotti believes tying down star striker Cristiano Ronaldo to the club “will not be a problem”, he said on Saturday.
Ronaldo has yet to sign a new deal to extend his three-year stay at the Bernabeu but Ancelotti is confident the former Manchester United star will stay put.
“Everybody knows he is a phenomenon and a great player,” said Ancelotti following a training session.
“Renewing his contract is not my job but it won’t be a problem.”
Ancelotti added: “I think in general the atmosphere among the squad is good.”
But the veteran Italian coach would not be drawn on potential new signings.
Asked about the possible arrival of Gareth Bale from Tottenham or PSG striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Ancelotti said simply: “I cannot talk about players who are not Madrid’s.
“I do not want to talk about Bale. Everyone knows what a great player he is but out of respect for those who are here I don’t want to talk about him.
“Ibramovic is a fantastic player. He can play anywhere in the world but today he is not a Real Madrid player.”
Ancelotti said he had sent a message to Barcelona wishing former coach Tito Vilanova all the best after the latter had to step down to undergo further cancer treatment. He also admitted talking to want away Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain, who is a reported target for Arsenal.
“I have spoken with Gonzalo and I think it is a private conversation. Today, Higuain is a Madrid player – I am happy he is here and that is that,” said Ancelotti.
He also maintained that Brazilian veteran Kaka was full of “motivation and confidence for this season” after being a fringe presence under Jose Mourinho last season.
“We shall see what will happen – he knows he has to do better than last year.”
Ancelotti will oversee his first match on Sunday when Real travel to southern England to take on second tier side Bornemouth in a friendly. (Agencies)