‘Not true’ – Former Real Madrid coach denies fallout with Cristiano Ronaldo after sudden exit | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez has cleared the air about his short-lived spell at the Santiago Bernabeu, offering clarity on the actual reasons behind his exit.

It is to be noted that the Spanish coach was dismissed just seven months after taking charge of the club in 2015.

Speaking about his term, he strongly denied the long-standing rumour that his exit had anything to do with the falling out with club legend Cristiano Ronaldo.

“It’s not true that I left Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo. There was never any problem between us; he is a great player and a phenomenon.

“I left due to certain internal issues within the club, but they had nothing to do with Ronaldo,” he said, as quoted by MARCA.

Predicting Arsenal result and El Clasicos

Meanwhile, the former Real Madrid boss also shared his thoughts on the upcoming Champions League tie against Arsenal.

Rafa Benitez’s Real Madrid stint was short lived. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Real Madrid are trailing the tie 3-0 and will need more than just luck to qualify for the semi-final.

“A comeback for Real Madrid against Arsenal will be difficult because the English team is strong. Although the Bernabéu is a different story, if the English team scores, everything becomes more complicated.

“But deep down, I hope Real Madrid wins and qualifies,” he stated.

Furthermore, he also commented on the upcoming Clasico clashes in La Liga and the Copa del Rey, firmly stating that Barcelona are favourites to win the ties

“Barcelona are currently in better form ahead of the Clásicos. Under Hansi Flick, they’ve really improved, especially the younger players who bring a lot of energy and hunger to win.

“That youthful enthusiasm, combined with Flick’s coaching, gives them a slight advantage going into these matches,” he concluded.