Croatian midfielder, Luka Modric, has explained that Ronaldo recplacements can only manage less than half the Portuguese’s goal output, and a true replacement may take 10 years.
The reigning world player of the year spoke after Los Blancos’ back to back losses to Barcelona, and before tonight’s UEFA Champions League second leg game against Ajax Amsterdam.
“Cristiano is a player that every team would miss. Looking for a replacement is almost impossible.
“Of course we miss him, given everything he did for the club. What the club tried to do was divide the burden among the players, and that isn’t easy.
According to Modric, no club can find the number of goals Ronaldo was able to deliver, instead try to find a player than can score just below 50% of Ronaldo’s goal ratio.
“Cristiano scored 50 goals, and you can’t find someone else who can do that.
“Some had to take a step forward, and though not score 50, but at least score 15-20, or even ten goals. This is what we are missing.
“That’s why I think scoring is our biggest problem this season. For example in the Copa match against Barcelona we created many chances, but a rival with their quality punishes you.
The Croatian concluded by suggesting Ronaldo’s replacement may take a decade.
“Cristiano is not here, so we can’t complain for the next ten years that we don’t have him.