After a week of speculation surrounding a potential move to China, Sergio Ramos has reconfirmed his commitment to Real Madrid.
“I'm a Madridista and I want to retire here,” said the Spaniard in a snap press conference.
“There is an offer from China and If I didn't feel wanted than it's an alternative, but at present my deal is with Real Madrid and my plan is to see out my contract.
“There has been too much speculation and I wanted to clear this matter up.
“The wage does not matter to me. I would play for Real Madrid for free.”
The defender set up the conference to squash any more rumors on his future and his relationship with club President Florentino Pérez.
“I've never had problem with president,” said Ramos. “Our relationship is like a father and son. I want to reiterate that I want to see out my contract at Real Madrid.”
Perez came out earlier this week to negate the move, saying, “I told Ramos that it was impossible for Real Madrid to let their captain go for free.” The Chinese Super League avoids hefty transfer fees for foreign players.
The Los Blancos captain has led the team to four Champions League titles, four La Liga titles, and two Copa del Rey triumphs. But the team came up short in silverware this year, with Ramos taking a brunt of the blame from management for the club's early exit from Champions League in the Round of 16.
There is no guarantee that Ramos will stick around with Real Madrid after his contract expires in 2021, however. Said Ramos, “I still have the physical strength to play for the club. How long will this last? I don't know … two, four, six years.
“When the time comes to move on I'll do so but in a place where I never have to face Real Madrid.”
