Jose Mourinho has backed Sergio Ramos to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League after his Real Madrid exit.
The Spanish giants have confirmed the veteran defender’s 16-year spell at the Bernabeu will come to an end when his contract expires at the end of the month.
AFP
Ramos, who said an emotional farewell to the club in a tearful press conference, has been linked with moves to Manchester United, Man City and Chelsea in recent weeks.
Having dismissed a return for former club Sevilla, saying it was ‘never an option’, he is being heavily linked with a move to the Premier League.
And Mourinho has ‘no doubts’ Ramos still has what it takes to perform in the English top flight.
The legendary manager even says the 35-year-old could have a similar impact to Thiago Silva at Chelsea, as he helped lead the Blues to Champions League glory after joining on a free transfer last summer.
The Special One, who managed Ramos at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, told Friday’s talkSPORT Breakfast: “You look at Thiago Silva and he’s in a similar situation.
“He didn’t stay in Paris when people expected him to.
“He came to Chelsea, signed for one season with an option for one more, he didn’t play every match, he had a couple of little muscular issues, but he gave great stability in big matches.
“You can imagine how much he helped the team to develop and his leadership. I believe Ramos is in a similar situation.
AFP
“He is even more physical than Thiago to cope with the Premier League demands. He’s very good in the air.
“I have no doubts he can play with the intensity and demands of the Premier League.”
Spanish outlet AS claim both Manchester clubs and Paris Saint-Germain are chasing Ramos, who will demand £200,000-a-week wages.
The Spain international won five LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies with Los Blancos.
And Mourinho is surprised Ramos did not end his career with Real Madrid.
AFP
“He’s the kind of player you expect to finish his career at Real Madrid,” the Special One added.
“So it’s quite surprising that it didn’t happen.
“I believe that, in spite of his injuries this season that kept him out for a couple of months, that doesn’t hide the fact he’s still a very good player capable of performing for a couple more seasons at a very good level.
“I can imagine we are going to see him playing at a very good club.
“Only a top club would be in condition to fulfil his financial demands.”
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