'I’m optimistic about the Club World Cup' - Monterrey's Sergio Ramos believes Rayados could surprise in this summer's tournament

Monterrey's Sergio Ramos might have a Play-In match against Pachuca Sunday, but he's already got his eyes set on another major international challenge - the 2025 World Cup. The Spanish defender, now with Monterrey, highlighted how important this tournament will be for both him and the team. Drawn into a tough group with Inter Milan, River Plate, and Urawa Red Diamonds, Ramos knows the road won’t be easy - but he’s embracing the opportunity.

“Our goal is to go out and compete at the highest level against every opponent,” he said in an interview with FIFA. “Attitude is non-negotiable. In football, little things can change everything, but what you can always control is your effort, your dedication, and your commitment. No matter the result, we want to walk off the pitch knowing we gave our best.”

He added, “We want to make a strong run - advance past the group stage, and then we’ll see what happens. “I’m optimistic about the Club World Cup. These tournaments always have surprise teams that go further than expected. Why not us?”

While his eyes are firmly set on international competition, Ramos also reflected on his short but impactful time in Mexico. Since joining Rayados for the Clausura 2025, he has appeared in nine matches and has been struck by the deep passion surrounding Mexican football - something he hadn’t fully grasped during past visits to the country as a tourist.

“What’s impressed me most is the intensity of the fans. I had been to Mexico before, but only on vacation. Living here and playing here is a whole different experience,” he explained. “It reminds me of Argentina’s league in the way fans feel every win and loss so deeply - it can even affect their mood. I didn’t know that until I came here.”

Ramos pointed out how this passion fuels his own motivation.

“When you feel that connection with the fans, it pushes you to give everything to bring home wins, trophies, something for them to celebrate," he said.

Currently, Monterrey are hoping to secure a place in the Liguilla. Despite being eliminated in the Round of 16 in the Champions Cup, they still have the Club World Cup on the horizon - a stage Ramos is clearly eager to shine on.

The Spanish defender also shared the reasons behind his decision to join Monterrey and play in Mexican football. “At this stage of my career, I want to keep winning,” Ramos said. “Mexico’s league is very appealing - not just in terms of personal branding, but also because of what the team is aiming for. There’s the Clausura, the Apertura, the Leagues Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. All of that played a big role in my decision.”

He continued, “My competitive nature pushed me toward a team that gives me the chance to be part of these kinds of tournaments and contribute in meaningful ways.”

Ramos remains questionable ahead of the Play-in match, and it is still unclear whether it will be a game-time decision or if he will be ruled out. It’s worth keeping an eye on the health status of the former Real Madrid player ahead of the match, as the winner will face América in the quarterfinals of the Liguilla.