Former Manchester United youth midfielder Markus Neumayr has praised Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming the multiple Ballon d'Or winnner's public persona is just a ‘protective mask'.
The Portuguese star has in the past been singled out for criticism over his behaviour but Neumayr, who got to know Ronaldo during his three-year spell at Old Trafford between 2003-06, says it is all a front.
“I can only say positive things about him. On the outside, it may have a somewhat repellent look, but his behaviour is just a protective mask. I perceived him as a very friendly and open guy,” Neumayr told Goal and Spox.