Ramos: Real Madrid cannot afford to make mistakes in Europe

Feb 10, 2013 1:10:00 PM

Los Blancos face Manchester United in the Champions League round of 16 on Wednesday, and the 26-year-old is aware that there is no margin for error

Sergio Ramos has warned his Real Madrid team-mates that they cannot afford to make a single mistake against Manchester United if their Champions League campaign is to end in success.

The Spanish champions are in search of their 10th European title, and although the former Sevilla man has denied that his side are obsessed with the competition, he is determined to make it to the final.

"I wouldn't call it an obsession," the Spain defender told The Observer.

"It's been a long time now and everyone says: 'This year la Decima, la Decima, la Decima'.

"Of course we feel that too but we're conscious of how difficult it is, one mistake and you're out. That said, the desire is intense and a final at Wembley would be the maximum."

Ramos went on to say that he was happy to have drawn the Red Devils in the last 16, having watched them as a child with his father.

"I was pleased to get United," the 26-year-old continued.

"They are in the Premier League what Madrid are in Spain perhaps: the values, the history. What they have always represented, the philosophy they transmit, the ideals they inculcated their players with, are similar.

"Few games have the repercussion of this match. And I'd rather play them than a team that's not as big but comes along and surprises you.

"Besides, I like English football. My dad used to watch a lot and always had a soft spot for Manchester United."