Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos García (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈserxjo ˈramoz ɣarˈθi.a]; born 30 March 1986) is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for Real Madrid and Spain national team. Mainly a centre back, he can also play as a right back.

Ramos is a complete and tenacious defender, who is regarded as one of the best defenders in the world. He is a strong player who excels in the air, making him a goal threat on set-pieces, and he is also a competent, aggressive tackler. He is gifted with pace, good technical ability, as well as good distribution and crossing ability. He has been criticised, however, for his lack of discipline at times, and he holds the record for the most red cards obtained by a Real Madrid player. Due to his leadership, his athletic and technical prowess, his ability to excel both offensively and defensively, as well as his tactical versatility, which allows him to be deployed as a centre back and as a full back, manager Carlo Ancelotti has compared him to legendary defender Paolo Maldini.

After emerging through Sevilla's youth system, Ramos went on to be a mainstay for Real Madrid. He acted as vice-captain for the latter, also being one of La Liga's top scorers from a defensive position.

Internationally Ramos competed with the Spanish national team in three World Cups and two European Championships, winning the former tournament in 2010 and the latter in 2008 and 2012. He made his first appearance at the age of 18 and, in 2013, he became the youngest player to ever reach 100 caps.

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