Florentino Pérez: “Sergio, you’ll always be the man of the Décima”

At the start of Sergio Ramos’ farewell event on Thursday, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez gave a speech to thank the captain. He spoke about Ramos’ achievements since arriving in 2005 and praised the player for all he has given the club.

Pérez stated: “This is a big day. We’ve had many years and matches with Sergio, and also a lot of respect. I remember the 8th of September in 2005 when he arrived to be presented as a 19-year-old. He was determined to take on the world. He was my first Spanish signing for Real Madrid. He was a signing, as we all know, that wasn’t easy, but he went on to define and era over 16 years.”

The president continued: “I feel so proud of what you’ve achieved. You’ve been a reference for our fans and you are undoubtedly one of the legends of Real Madrid. You’ve been our emblematic captain. Madridistas will always carry you in their hearts. You’re a player who never gives up. Thanks for what you’ve given this club and for defending our badge. Sergio, you’ll always be the man of the Décima, of the 93rd minute in Lisbon.”

Pérez then listed Ramos’ achievements with the club. He said: “In total, you won 22 titles. That makes you, together with Marcelo, the Real Madrid player with the most titles in history only behind Paco Gento. You scored 101 goals, an impressive number for a defender and played 671 games. You will forever be one of our great captains. Today all Madridistas, me first and foremost, thank you for having added to the club’s legend and making Real Madrid admired in the world. It is not an easy day because you have been someone really special to me and because you and I have lived through and suffered through the history of Real Madrid together. I want you to be happy. You know that this will always be your home.”

Pérez then presented Ramos with a golden badge and photos were taken with the trophies that Ramos won during his time at the club.