'He can play as long as he wants' - Spain legend David Villa praises Sergio Ramos' form with Monterrey

Former Spain striker David Villa had high praise for his ex-teammate Sergio Ramos, who continues to shine in Liga MX with Monterrey.

“He can play as long as he wants,” said Villa. “Physically, he’s still strong, mentally he’s a leader, and on the pitch, he makes a difference. Monterrey made a great signing.”

Ramos has been key in Rayados’ late push toward the Clausura 2025 Play-In. The team led by Martín Demichelis bounced back from the painful defeat suffered last weekend in the Clásico Regio against Tigres, where they lost 2-1 with a last-minute goal. Now, with Ramos leading from the back, Monterrey are back on track for a spot in the final phase of the Clausura 2025. The Spanish veteran has played eight matches, scored three goals, and received one red card in the tournament, and his influence has been key in keeping the team in the fight.

Ramos arrived at Monterrey for the Clausura 2025 amid high expectations, but also with some doubts due to several months of inactivity. The Spanish defender, a World Cup champion and multiple-time winner with Real Madrid, hadn’t played since leaving Sevilla in December 2024, where he spent his final season in Europe.

His lack of match rhythm and age, he's 38, raised questions from the media and fans about whether he could perform at the level demanded by Liga MX. However, as the tournament has progressed, Ramos has managed to silence many of those doubts, becoming one of the key leaders in Monterrey’s backline.

Monterrey took a big step toward securing a spot in the Clausura 2025 Play-In with a 1-0 victory over América on Matchday 16. After the match, Ramos praised his team’s performance.

"Very important win at home and a clean sheet. Great team effort. This is the path to follow," he said. "Now, let’s go for the last three points, Rayados!"

His comments highlight the importance of unity and focus in the final stretch of the tournament. The win lifts Rayados into contention, while América continues to struggle heading into the postseason.

This Sunday on Matchday 17, a special reunion is set: Ramos will face off against former Real Madrid teammate James Rodríguez as Monterrey takes on León. Two long-time stars, now rivals in Liga MX, meet in a clash full of intrigue.