Pochettino casts doubts over PSG signing Sergio Ramos
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 6 Oct 2021 13:02 BST
- 3 min read
Sergio Ramos’ transfer from Real Madrid to Paris Saint-Germain was treated with fanfare in the French capital, but now head coach Mauricio Pochettino appears to have moved to play down expectations for the veteran defender.
Ramos has yet to make his debut for PSG because of an ongoing calf problem, while last season he made only 21 outings for Real Madrid – a club where he had spent the previous 16 years and had gained legendary status.
It is hoped that Ramos will be ready to return to the fold after the present international break, with PSG next in action on Friday, 15 October – a match they are likely to undertake without their South American stars.
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Pochettino has told fans not to expect too much of the centre-back, though.
“Perhaps the reality of Sergio Ramos is different from that of 2014, or that of Lionel Messi and Neymar,” he told Movistar+, referencing the defender’s inspirational performances that helped Madrid win a 10th European Cup seven years ago.
PSG stars have to be at their best - Poch
These footballers are great champions but they have to get used to reality. We all have in mind that they have been the best, but they have to be at their level
- Mauricio PochettinoIndeed, Pochettino said that his PSG side, though packed with superstars, will only have a chance of winning the much-coveted Champions League title if all his players can peak.
“These footballers are great champions but they have to get used to reality. We all have in mind that they have been the best, but they have to be at their level,” he added.
“If they get that level back, of course we can accomplish anything. But the fight starts to find the best version of each one. The orchestra has to be in tune.”
PSG have rarely acted as one cohesive unit so far this season, with their 2-0 win over Manchester City in the Champions League an undoubted high point for them to date.
However, Pochettino has trouble looming, with attacker Kylian Mbappe have broken his silence on his failed summer move to Real Madrid in an unfavourable light for the club.
Sergio Ramos’ return for PSG would be a welcome tonic – but Pochettino needs the Real Madrid legend to hit the ground running to avoid any more negative press.
