Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini has called for Cristiano Ronaldo to be given time to adapt to his new surroundings following his world record transfer.

The £80m Portugal star has flown under the radar during pre-season games for his new club.

The likes of Kaka, Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso have all made instant impressions, but despite Ronaldo’s relatively quiet performances, Pellegrini is not worried about the price tag weighing heavy on the player’s mind.

“Cristiano Ronaldo needs a little time to adapt to his new team’s style,” he said.

“Every player on the squad is working hard to be fit and play well.

“Cristiano has experienced a change in style and now lives in a different country.

“He needs a little more time unlike those who already know La Liga.”

Elsewhere, Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is looking forward to playing in a more attacking and exciting league after leaving Italy for Spain this summer.

The Sweden international swapped Internazionale for the Spanish and European champions in a 40million euro deal and is relishing the prospect of displaying his attacking talents in La Liga.

“In Italy all the squads are strong in defence and defend much more than attack,” he said.

“Here it is not as stressful as when I played with Inter. The pace and atmosphere is more relaxed and I can concentrate on football.

“La Liga took the two best players from Serie A and the Premier League so this league is very special.”