Experienced Monterrey defender Sergio Ramos asserted on Monday that his previous club, Real Madrid, should be viewed as the frontrunners for the Club World Cup.
Recently, Paris Saint-Germain secured the UEFA Champions League title by decisively defeating Inter Milan in the final. Liga MX team Monterrey is scheduled to face the Italians in their opening match on Tuesday at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.
Despite this, 39-year-old Ramos contends that his former club, the renowned Spanish giants Madrid, remain the team to beat.
“Real Madrid are always the favourites in major competitions,” Ramos remarked to the media in anticipation of the Group E encounter against Inter.
“Real Madrid epitomises excellence in the football world, reflected in the calibre of the club and its players, as well as the mentality that’s been cultivated over many years.”
The club has appointed a new coach, Xabi Alonso, and welcomed fresh faces including Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen.
“Xabi’s arrival brings excitement; he has won everything as a player and fully understands the club’s dynamics,” Ramos noted.
“This insight could be incredibly beneficial for him in this new phase.”
Ramos mentioned that Madrid’s inability to secure a significant trophy this season is not attributable to last summer’s high-profile acquisition of Kylian Mbappé, with whom he formerly played at PSG.
“I’d wager that in the next five to ten years, Kylian will clinch four or five Ballon d’Or awards,” remarked Ramos.
Having left Real Madrid in 2021, he expressed a preference to avoid facing his old club while in the United States.
“Going up against former teammates is always pleasant, but if we can avoid that scenario, it would be much better for both parties to steer clear of any awkwardness,” he added.
Madrid will kick off their campaign in Miami on Wednesday against Saudi Arabian team Al Hilal.
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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