Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo snubbed as Real Madrid doctor names Gareth Bale 'best athlete'

Manchester United hero Cristiano Ronaldo is hailed for his meticulous dedication to keeping his body in pristine condition.

But it is former teammate Gareth Bale who has been named as the “best athlete” Real Madrid doctor Jesus Olmo has ever come across in his career. The Welshman is out of contract at the Bernabeu this summer, though he put himself front-and-centre of the shop window with two magnificent goals in his country’s 2-1 play-off semi-final win over Austria on Thursday.

The 32-year-old has been shunned by Madrid for a large portion of his eight-year stay, leading him to manufacture a loan back to Tottenham last season. Bale has suffered a number of injury setbacks since his 2013 switch to Spain, which haven’t helped his cause.

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Nevertheless, Olmo said Bale, not Ronaldo, was the one who “impressed" him most. Speaking in 2020 (via the Mirror), he said: "Perhaps the best athlete I've ever seen is Bale.

"Gareth Bale is a natural athlete who can excel in practically any sport. He has incredible athletic skills, and I would also say technical skills. He is the one who impressed me most in all aspects."

United striker Ronaldo, 37, said earlier this year he felt as if he could play into his 40s. However, many have predicted Qatar 2022 will be his last appearance at a World Cup — should he get there. Portugal were handed a massive boost in their World Cup qualification quest when Italy, who were in their play-off draw, were stunned 1-0 at home by North Macedonia.

The Macedonians will now play Ronaldo’s side next week for a place at December’s tournament, after Portugal defeated Turkey 3-1 in their semi-final.