Capello Unsurprised By Ramos’ Departure From Real Madrid
Former Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello says he is unsurprised by Sergio Ramos’ departure from the club due to his age.
Ramos is on the lookout for a new club after ending his 16-year spell at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 35-year-old wanted a two-year extension to his contract with a 10 percent decrease in salary but the club offered a one-year extension, which was later taken off the table, leaving Ramos to find a new club.
Capello managed Ramos during his second spell as Real Madrid manager in the 2006/2007 season, and the Italian says age has been a major factor in the defender’s exit from Los Blancos.
"Age is a burden for everyone. I don't know if he was going to be a starter,” Capello told AS.
"I'm talking about a player who has been very important to me. And I also helped him a lot. When I signed in my second spell, he just arrived.
"He has been fundamental in the triumphs of the team, there is no denying it. But perhaps at 35 years old it is no longer the time to demand a lot."
Ramos made 671 appearances for Real Madrid in his time at the club but only 21 of those came in the 2020/2021 season as he was dogged by injuries and missed out on Spain’s travelling party for the European Championship as a result.
Ramos won five La Liga titles with Los Blancos, four UEFA Champions League trophies, four FIFA Club World Cups, two Copa del Reys among numerous other honours.
He also won the FIFA World Cup in 2010 with Spain as well as the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.
