Carlo Ancelotti Backs Sergio Ramos Following His International Retirement
After 180 caps and an 18-year long career, Sergio Ramos announced his international retirement on Thursday.
The 36-year-old had been exiled from the Spanish national team by Luis Enrique, but with the former Barcelona boss having been replaced by Luis de la Fuente, there was hope that he could sneak his way back into the national team setup.
However, Ramos was informed by de la Fuente that he would not be included in his squad for next month’s double header against Norway and Scotland, which led to the former Real Madrid defender’s decision to retire.
Carlo Ancelotti managed Ramos during his first spell at Real Madrid, and he stated his opinion on the situation (via Sport), in which he backed his former player as still being good enough to feature internationally, despite his age.
“The issue of age is the same for veterans as it is for youth. If a player complies, you do not have to look at the passport. If at 17 he deserves to play, let him do it. He shouldn’t to play if he doesn’t deserve it or if he’s not better than another. The same goes for a 36-year-old player.”
Ancelotti could be set to deal with international matters himself in the future, as the Real Madrid head coach continues to be linked with the vacant manager’s position at Brazil.
