Sergio Ramos would have preferred Paris Saint-Germain to avoid Real Madrid in the round of 16 of the Champions League but admitted “I have to face the present”.
The Los Blancos legend spent 16 trophy-rich years in the Spanish capital, where he won five LaLiga titles and four Champions League honors among his many honors.
Center-back Ramos moved to Ligue 1 with PSG ahead of the 2021-22 season after Real Madrid decided not to offer him a new contract.
In a twist of fate, Ramos’ new team was paired to fight his former team, but only after a new draw was required following a glitch on the first try.
Speaking at the opening of his new gym in Madrid, Ramos spoke about the prospect of creating a club so close to his heart.
“Fate is very unpredictable. I would have liked to draw another team, but that’s the way it is, “said Ramos.
“You know the affection and love I have for Real Madrid, which will never change. Now I have to face the present. Game for PSG.
“It’s a mixture of feelings. I would have liked not to have this tie, but on the other hand, returning home to the Bernabeu I spent the best years of my life here and not having had a goodbye because of COVID, it’s gratifying.
“I would have liked it to be another way, but this is football. I have to defend my team. I will go to death with PSG “.
Another subplot raised by the draw is the fact that Kylian Mbappe will come against Real Madrid, who have been pushed back in their attempts to sign the France star on the day of the transfer deadline.
With Mbappe due in June there is a possibility that he has found a pre-contractual agreement with Real Madrid when he plays against them with PSG.
Ramos, however, hopes Mbappe will decide to stay with the Ligue 1 leaders.
I like being surrounded by the best players and he is a fundamental part of PSG in the present and in the future. I want him to continue on my team, “he added.
At PSG, Ramos has joined longtime rival and great Barcelona Lionel Messi, a player with whom he has fought many times over the years.
But now Ramos says the two have a relationship built on mutual respect in Paris.
“We now share a locker room and have a great relationship. Let’s try to help PSG win, “he said.
“The goal is the Champions League and both Messi and I can make our contribution. The relationship is one of admiration and respect for both parties “.