Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo has said that the jeering he endured from the home fans during Real Madrid's Champions League tie in Zagreb was due to jealousy.

"It's surely because I'm good-looking, rich and a great footballer. They're jealous of me. I don't have any other explanation," Spanish newspaper Marca quotes him as saying.

The Spanish side eventually ran out 1-0 winners, thanks to Angel di Maria's second-half strike.

Former Manchester United player Ronaldo also said that the referee was "an embarrassment" for not giving him enough protection.

"It's sad because referees say they will protect the most skilful players, but while others can't be touched, I am fouled all the time," Ronaldo added.

"I hope this referee never takes charge of another of our games because he is an embarrassment."

Real, who are currently top of La Liga on goal difference, travel to Levante on Sunday.

Written by
Pascal Lemesre