Cancelo: Ronaldo raises Juve's level, he is the best player in the world

Joao Cancelo spoke to Sky Sport about Cristiano Ronaldo, Alex Sandro and incoming Atletico clash.

“We want to win more and we’re working every day towards that,” Cancelo told Sky Sport Italia, adding: “It’s been a difficult period because I was in pain when I played, so it was tough both physically and psychologically. Then I started to feel I was getting better day after day. As hard as it was, I knew what to do to return as soon as possible.”

Cancelo has quickly settled in with the rest of his team-mates and their support is crucial during time on the sidelines.  He said: “I feel very good here – this is an amazing group, with great players and fantastic people.

“[Cristiano] Ronaldo and I are friends – he’s a great player, the best in the world. Obviously, he raises the team’s level and makes the difference. That’s why Juventus brought him in.”

“Alex Sandro is an excellent player – he’s one of the best left-backs in the world. I saw him play when he was at Porto, and I was at Benfica. I’ve always admired him and I’m honoured to play in the same team as him,” the defender explains.

The Portuguese full-back is establishing himself as a vital cog in this Juventus machine but acknowledges that he can still up his level of performance: “I know I need to improve in the defensive phase. I’m more geared towards attacking but I’m here to learn – thanks to my team-mates and the coach I can do so from the best. Each day I’m assimilating the movements required of me and gaining confidence in the role.”

After matches in the Coppa Italia and Super Cup, the Bianconeri return to league action this weekend. In a month’s time comes the return of Champions League football and the two-legged tie with Atletico Madrid, a side Cancelo knows well.

“They seem more like an Italian team than a Spanish one. They’re a very physical, compact side and have players with real quality. They’re very strong defensively and they will be two tough games,” he said.