Marcelo: I don't have a problem with Ronaldo

The Brazil international has dismissed suggestions that his relationship with the Portuguese has turned sour

Real Madrid defender Marcelo has insisted that he does not have a problem with Cristiano Ronaldo and has backed his team-mate to win the Fifa Ballon d'Or.

A number of recent reports have suggested that the Brazil international did not get along with the Portugal international, but Marcelo has now made it clear that there is no tension between the two players.

"I do not have a problem with Cristiano. These rumours are wrong. I never had any problems with him," the left-back stressed when question about his relationship with the Portugal star at a press conference.

"People are creating things that are not there. If anything, I have an excellent relationship with Cristiano.

"Who should win the Ballon d'Or? Cristiano Ronaldo. He deserves to win it, not just based on his performances this season, but also for all the hard work he always puts in."

Marcelo then went on to discuss Wednesday's Champions League match against Galatasaray and insisted that Madrid want the full three points in order to seal top spot in their section.

"It's very important to us to finish first in the group, not just for the round of 16 draw, but also for our confidence," he said.

"We are in a good mood. We're strong in attack and have improved defensively."

Madrid have collected 10 points from four games so far in Group B and will be guaranteed Champions League football after Christmas with a draw on Wednesday