Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has praised Cristiano Ronaldo and claims that the Portuguese is the greatest player he has ever seen.

The Portugal international has been in red-hot form for the Spanish giants this season, hitting 25 goals in 18 appearances for Los Blancos en route to strengthening his claim for a first FIFA Ballon d'Or win since 2008.

Speaking to The Times, the former AC Milan boss said that he continues to be amazed by the 28-year-old, who he believes is the best of his generation.

"I've seen Ronaldo play a lot of times, of course, but when you're up close every day his technical skills are unbelievable," the Italian trainer said.

"He's the best I've ever seen. He's scored in every game in this period — 25 goals in 18 games — and he can score more."

Ronaldo is considered among the frontrunners for the game's most coveted individual award, along with Lionel Messi and Franck Ribery.

The former Manchester United star is expected to miss Wednesday's clash with Galatasaray in the Spanish capital having sustained a thigh injury during their 5-0 victory over Almeria on Saturday.