Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez has said that Cristiano Ronaldo will be fit to play in the club's opening league match of the season.

The 30-year-old has missed his side's most recent friendlies, but Benitez is confident that he will return to face Sporting Gijon when their La Liga campaign gets underway.

"Cristiano had a problem the other day and he has been working with the medical team," Benitez told reporters. "He should be okay next week and I don't think he'll have any problems playing the opening game against Sporting on August 23.

"During the pre-season two players suffered injuries; the rest have been suffering twinges or discomfort, not real injuries. For me, it's positive how the squad is shaping up physically.

"The team is fine, but we still have to improve. The impression we have given is one of a very solid-looking side and I am feeling optimistic."

Ronaldo did not feature during Madrid's 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich on Wednesday.