Cristiano Ronaldo backed his old club Real Madrid and former rival Manchester City to return to the peak of their powers, as the two European giants approach the midpoint of what has been a difficult season for both.

Manchester City's recent form has passed "injury-stricken slump" and arrived at "inconceivable crisis", with many in the footballing world expressing their surprise at the winner of the last four Premier Leagues winning just one game in 13 across all competitions.

Manchester City take on Everton later today in a pivotal Premier League fixture. For Pep Guardiola’s side, they’ll be desperate to pick up three points to get back to winning ways.