“Remaining ambitious to win is what has made us the best club in the world" explained the Whites' captain.

Sergio Ramos spoke ahead of Real Madrid's opening match in the Champions League against Roma (9pm CEST): "Regardless of where the final of the Champions League is, Real Madrid are always obliged to be competitive. In this season’s Champions League we have to defend the title and it’s always a bit more motivation when final is in Madrid, the home of an opponent like Atlético. We always compete, convinced that we can win the Champions League".

"The boss has said it well. It’s an honour and responsibility, which is what this team has shown. Three Champions League wins are not by chance. Remaining ambitious to win is also what has made us the best club in the world".

Pressure
"We’ve got a long way to go until the final. There are some very strong opponents. Barcelona are a direct rival and are favourites. It’s normal that the great players who represent them make them the team that they are. It's one of the most beautiful competitions".

"I prefer a Champions League over the Copa del Rey. It’s true that all competitions are important, but some more so than others. It’s not easy to win the Champions Leagues and you have to respect that. It’s not normal to have won so many Champions Leagues in so few years. Any player in this squad would prefer a Champions League over three Copa del Reys".

Advice for Vinicius

"He has some unique attributes, he’s a great player and has a promising future. Between Real Madrid and him, they must work out the best way forward and he still needs to continue developing. We don’t have to put pressure on him".