Jonathan Barnett Comments on Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and More

The agent of Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, Jonathan Barnett, has commented on the Welshman's relationship with team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.

In an in-depth interview with the Guardian's Stuart James, Barnett revealed that while the pair aren't great friends, there aren't any rifts between them, either.

He said: "They don’t go out eating every night together, but it’s fine. There’s no hatred there. Gareth is a quiet guy. They’re complete opposites."

The agent also commented on the difficulties Bale endured last season as he suffered jeers and whistles from some sections of the Madrid faithful—with his car even being vandalised at one point.

Despite the problems, Barnett believes his player has a successful future ahead of him at the Santiago Bernabeu:

"

I think there’s a great love of Ronaldo. I think that the new guard is coming and there’s some resentment, perhaps, to that. But I think things will change. Gareth’s now playing in a better position [more centrally], where he wants to play. I’ve always said it, I think he’ll be the best player in the world in the next couple of years.

"

Under new manager Rafael Benitez, Bale has been moved in from the wing and now tends to occupy the No. 10 role at Los Blancos behind Karim Benzema.

Initially, questions were raised about the 26-year-old's suitability in the position, as Bale's game had previously been all about running at the opposition with pace rather than operating in a highly technical role that requires great vision and creativity.

However, the Welshman has thus far impressed. Along with two goals, he already has four assists in La Liga this season—well on his way to surpassing the nine he managed last year.

The questions and pressure Bale faces come with the expectations surrounding a world-record €91 million transfer fee, something Barnett loves to tease Jorge Mendes, Ronaldo's agent over.

“I keep reminding Mendes of that Bale deal every time I see him," Barnett said. "He ignores it. Absolutely ignores it.

“I’m sure he’s looking for some way to break it. But it’s nice, the world record, I’m quite proud of it.”

Ronaldo clearly enjoys being the main man at Real, which explains the tensions they may have had in the past, as Bale could have been perceived as stealing away the limelight.

However, it will be encouraging for Los Blancos fans to hear of their cordial relationship, as their side need a harmonised squad if they're to beat Barcelona to the league title.