Bernardeschi sees Juventus team-mate 'a step above' rivals

Cristiano Ronaldo is “the best in the world”, according to Federico Bernardeschi, with a Juventus colleague of the Portuguese superstar admitting that he has “always preferred him to Lionel Messi”. “I’ve always preferred him to Messi. What I’ve discovered is that he’s an exceptional person, a humble lad with an extraordinary personality which he transmits to everyone. It’s infectious. It’s in that regard that I’ve always preferred him to Messi. “I remember the final of the European Championships when he had to go off injured in the first half, but on the bench, he was an added coach.” Bernardeschi added on the qualities that Ronaldo brings to the fold: “Juve was already an extraordinary club in terms of a winning mentality, with nothing to learn from anyone, but the arrival of Cristiano brought something more. “Just think about his red card against Valencia: the fact he’s won five Champions Leagues and five Ballons d’Or and cried because he was sent off tells you a lot about his passion. “I went over to him to tell him to be calm because he’s the best in the world and I didn’t want to see him cry. He didn’t deserve it because it really was an unjust red card. “Having Ronaldo close is an example for the youngsters, even at a great club like Juve. You have to be intelligent, you’re training with the best player in the world and if you’re lucky enough to do that you need to try and steal a few things. “It’s like riding a wave, he has helped me and still is. He’s an example to follow, obviously staying firm on your personality and objectives.”

BREAKING: Napoli striker robbed following Liverpool 1-0 win