Jose Mourinho: 'Cristiano Ronaldo is better than Andres Iniesta'

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has insisted that Cristiano Ronaldo had reason to be upset at losing out to Andres Iniesta as Europe's best player for the 2011-12 season.

Ronaldo was pivotal in Real Madrid's La Liga title success last season, but Iniesta, who endured a trophiless season with Barcelona, was voted as the most impressive performer in Europe.

Mourinho told CNN: "Iniesta is a superb player. There is no doubt about that. However, he did not have such a great season.

"He was great at Euro 2012. He won the Euro's but we should not forget that this is a competition that lasts only three weeks.

"I think Cristiano had good reason to be upset with UEFA's decision."

Barcelona host Real Madrid in the El Clasico derby on Sunday.