Sergio Ramos’ predecessor talked about the controversial contract extension for the central defender.
Former Real Madrid center-back, captain and club legend Fernando Hierro talked to The New Arab and discussed the negotiations between the club and Sergio Ramos for a contract extension. Ramos’ current deal expires next summer and the two sides have not reached an agreement.
"I’d like for him to stay and retire at Real Madrid. We have to consider many things in this situation. First of all, the kind of player he is and the level he brings to the table, we can’t forget that. When you offer a contract extension you have to consider that, he joined Madrid when he was 19 years old and now he’s the captain, the heart and soul of the team," said Hierro.
Hierro himself left Real Madrid as a free agent in what was a controversial decision by the club at the time, so perhaps he’s seeing the similarities.
Ramos is 34 years old and his decline is certainly coming, so Real Madrid don’t want to offer him a two-year extension while maintaining his current salary. Hierro believes Ramos is still performing at a high level, though.
"There’s another thing, his performances have not dropped even now that he’s 34 years old. He’s a pro and his attitude is great, I think he’s better than ever, more focused, and that’s something the club needs to consider as well. If I were making the decision, I’d like for Ramos to retire at Real Madrid," concluded Hierro.
Ramos had surgery to repair his meniscus two weeks ago and will rejoin the squad before the end of the season. Reports from Spain suggest that an agreement between Ramos and Real Madrid is not close, so the possibility of him leaving the club next summer is likely at this point.