Wednesday, 8 June 2011

Interview: Sergio Ramos

SERGIO RAMOS: "REAL MADRID NEEDED A COACH LIKE MOURINHO"

Sergio Ramos in Spanish jersey
Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos talked, in an interview with Spanish journalists, about Real Madrid 2010-2011 season and about the club's targets for the next. He also spoke about his future and that of the Spanish national team.

Has Real Madrid been close to Barcelona this season newly finished?
I do not like to compare us with other teams. Barcelona has its style and philosophy of play. Ours is completely different, it’s something that Mourinho told. Bit by bit, you could see a more solid team that played better and that was capable of winning a title.

What is the target for Real Madrid in the Jose Mourinho's second year?
Real Madrid is obligated to fight for the four titles that is going to play for next season: Spanish Super Cup, Spanish Cup, League, and Champions League. That’s always a priority for this club.

Did you imagine that Mourinho’s impact would be so profound?
It was something that people could see coming, for all that occurs around him. There are few coaches that cause this kind of reactions. We are fortunate to work with him, for his experience, his titles... Real Madrid needed a coach like Mourinho, a reference with strong character and personality. You learn from him every day. He is always attentive with everything and helps you to improve each training day.

Are there two Mourinhos, one for the people and other for the players?
The image that he transmits is the only one, but the truth is that the closeness he has with the template is not something people can see when only have his images at press conferences or matches. He is a very direct person, loyal to his ideas and he wants the best for each player.

Has Mourinho transformed Sergio Ramos into a better defender?
The team worked very hard on the defensive aspect and the whole team has improved, not just me. The numbers are there. The defense is essential for a team. People must not only appreciate those who score goals.

What about your contract renewal?
When it is definitive, and everything is signed, you will know it, but it is not closed yet. There has been a very important rapprochement and the agreement is almost total. I am happy and I want to retire in this club. I am very happy in Real Madrid and I am not considering other thing than playing in white jersey.

And what about Aguero?
He is a player that makes differences.

It's been almost a year since you got that star for the Spanish national team. Has your life changed?
Yes, and I wear it with more pride each day. It cost us a lot. This star is result of the hard work and the dream of an entire life. But the titles shouldn’t change persons. We lived some unforgettable moments and I feel privileged because I have had incredible experiences, but we can not spend all day thinking about what we have already done.

Has something changed in the national team?
No. I am not an actor. I am a direct person and if a bad feeling had existed in the Spanish national team, I would say it.