Sergio Ramos has reflected on Italy’s opportunity for revenge over Spain, and on his disappointment in national colleagues playing in the Premier League.
Spain are currently preparing to face Italy in this evening’s second semi-final of the Confederations Cup, in what is a rematch of last summer’s Euro 2012 Final, which ended a convincing 4-0 to La Roja.
“It was a flawless game where everything went smoothly,” reflected Ramos in conversation with AS.
“That stays with you, a result that broad. But football always presents an opportunity for revenge and they will have that chance.
“We want to maintain our consistency of recent years in direct matches with Italy.”
The Azzurri are without Mario Balotelli, who has dropped out of the tournament through injury.
“He’s a great footballer, a fundamental piece for both his team and his national side and his absence is significant.
“I like to face the best forward and I will do regardless of whether Balotelli plays. When one drops out, they have another with the same quality to come in.”
Ramos was asked of the increasing number of players in the national team that are playing at Premier League clubs.
“I’m a player, not a sporting director, but if it had been up to me, some of those who are now with the national team playing in the Premier League I wish were Real Madrid players, because they are very, very good, players who make a difference.
“Torres at Madrid? It would be complicated but in truth it would not have mattered to me.
“And any that you can name [Navas, Silva, Cazorla]. They have done enough and in their teams they are fundamental, great players who make a difference to their teams.”
