Ronaldo says to leave ailing teammate Bale alone

Cristiano Ronaldo AP file photo

MADRID — Cristiano Ronaldo says the best medicine for ailing teammate Gareth Bale is to leave him alone.

Ronaldo says “Gareth Bale is doing well. It’s better to leave him alone and do pressure on other players.”

Bale has had two muscle injuries since his record transfer, limiting his playing time and leading to speculation about whether he had a back hernia that he and the club have denied.

Ronaldo says that “people make a lot pressure around him because of how much he cost coming from Tottenham, but I think it’s not good for him.”

Ronaldo praised Bale’s desire “to learn” and said he was sure Bale would “do well for the club.”

Bale returned to play 15 minutes on Saturday. He is expected to play against Juventus on Wednesday.