Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo excited for "special" return to Sporting Lisbon

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that it will be "amazing" to return to Sporting Lisbon, where he began his football career.

The three-time Ballon d'Or winner will face the Portuguese outfit at the Jose Alvalade stadium on November 22 as part of Madrid's Champions League group campaign.

Earlier in the season, Ronaldo scored in the 89th minute of a 2-1 triumph against the club where he attracted the attention of Manchester United in 2003.

The prolific attacker went on to sign for the Red Devils and spent five years perfecting his craft under Sir Alex Ferguson before sealing a then-world record £80m switch to Real Madrid.

"It is always special to be back," Ronaldo told Sky Sports News. "I remember going back to Old Trafford two or three years ago and now to go back to Sporting, which was the team that created me from 11 to 18 years old.

"It is always a pleasure to be back and see my old stadium and my old friends. It will be amazing, but of course I have to defend my colours and I want to win the game. We need to win, too."

Madrid are currently second in Group F with a two-point lead, while Sporting are seven behind in third spot.