Cristiano Ronaldo Says Gareth Bale Will ‘Be Great’ For Real Madrid Despite Slow Start

Though Real Madrid continues to play at a high level in both the Spanish Primera Division and UEFA Champions League, offseason transfer acquisition and highly paid Gareth Bale is still undergoing the process of getting acclimated to his new city, team and league. Joining Real before the start of the season by way of a six-year, $121 million deal, Bale departed Barclays Premier League affiliate Tottenham after spending 6 successful seasons at White Hart Lane. Now playing alongside one of the world's best players in Cristiano Ronaldo, Bale is still looking for a high level of consistency, something that has been hampered by nagging injuries and the pressures that come with a record contract.

"I think Gareth Bale has done well," Ronaldo said. "Since he arrived he has had to do a preseason, so it has been difficult for him. But you can see he is very excited about being here. He always wants to improve, which is important. People put pressure on him, for how much he costs, which I do not think is good for him. If you want to help him, leave him alone, put pressure on other players. I am sure he will do very well for the team."

Ronaldo also believes that preseason injuries have undoubtedly hampered Bale's ability to be full-go throughout each match but says his new teammate has the tireless work ethic that will make him a tremendous part of Real's big picture while remaining one of the top players in the world.

"He hasn't had it easy because his pre-season was disrupted and then he got the injury," he said. "If you talk to him you can tell he is very excited about playing and being part of the team. I am 100% sure he will be great for the team because he is a fantastic player and a wonderful person. He always wants to learn, which is the most important thing."

Firing off 6 shot attempts this season, Bale has recorded one goal and even though he is still getting acclimated to his new surroundings, Real Madrid hasn't missed a beat. Leading Group B of the UEFA Champions League over Juventus, FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray, Los Blancos are also in the mix for a Spanish Primera title, as they currently sit just 3 points shy of Barcelona for the top spot in the league.

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