REAL MADRID, Ramos: "You have to prove yourself everyday"

© foto di Hernandez/Alterphotos/Image Sp

Over time Sergio Ramos has gained importance in the Real Madrid squad, becoming the team's vice-captain. The Andalusian defender, who has established himself in the position of centre back, analysed the upcoming match against Sevilla and the probability of his team achieving victory in the Sánchez Pizjuán for the third consecutive year. “We're always required to go out to win, wherever we're playing. I know Sevilla and I know that regardless of how they've been doing leading up to the match, they always complicate things for us on their pitch”, he said to the Bwin web page.

He also spoke of the special significance for him of visiting his birth place: “It's always a great joy for someone to return home. Not only personally in terms of being with my friends and family, but also professionally because it's a stadium that has given me a lot. It's watched me grow up and also trained me in my early years as a person and a footballer”.

Asked whether his team, as current champions, is favourite to win La Liga, Ramos said: “Normally it is, but that doesn't mean anything. You can't live off the past in football, you have to prove yourself everyday. It's true that last year we accomplished figures that are practically unbeatable and it was an extraordinary year. It was a well-deserved title for our team and now it's time to defend it. We have to do things at least just as well, continue to respect our rivals just as we always have and want to keep improving in order to go on winning titles”.

The player for Spain has made history at this club due to his effort, talent and above all titles: “Since I arrived here I'm driven by a personal goal I set myself to be legendary, and hopefully one day my name might live on in the history of this great club. As in the case of Raúl, Pirri, Camacho, Di Stéfano... People that over the years will always be remembered for having played in this team”.

In terms of the memories he has playing for Real Madrid, the vice-captain cast his mind back and said: “I have many memories. I think that throughout your life you always keep many close to your heart. Your first goal, your first title, the first time you go to Cibeles and experience that amazing atmosphere... They're unique experiences and one day I'd like to describe them to my children and grandchildren”.

Lastly, he commented on the challenges that lay before him in the club: “I'd like to continue establishing myself in my position as centre back, maintain the high level of these last two years and hopefully I'll be able to continue adding titles to my list of accomplishments, which is of course what you are remembered for in the end”.