Sergio Ramos confirms he turned down lifelong contract offer from Sevilla, talks MLS as next destination

On Monday, Sevilla announced that Sergio Ramos would not be signing a new contract, bringing his second spell to an end after just one season. The 38-year-old, who previously left for Real Madrid in 2005, signed a one-year deal in September, which he chose not to extend.

Ramos spoke (via AS Diary) at his farewell ceremony on Tuesday, and explained his delight at having the opportunity to represent his boyhood club for the second time in his career.

“I stopped again to pay tribute to (Antonio) Puerta, (Jose Antonio) Reyes, my grandfather and my father, who had the illusion of seeing me here. I wanted to show them that I could still be here. Another goal it was to show my Sevilla fans how to do better: with performances and commitment. I believe they have been fulfilled in a remarkable way. I leave with my head held high and my duty fulfilled.

“The contract said one year and I think I earned the right to choose. I showed my face and I will never leave if the ship sinks. Embarked on this project because it was a matter of feeling and heart and not of money. I I would like to be remembered with the good performance I gave this season. Someone who doubts my love for Seville He's been missing for the last year.”

Ramos also confirmed that he has been offered a lifetime contract by the club, similar to the one accepted by Jesus Navas a few weeks ago.

“This is a decision I made on a personal and family level. I leave here as I arrived, without talking about money. It gave me the opportunity to continue with a life contract, but I made another decision” .

Finally, Ramos addressed his future. He has been linked with a move to MLS in recent weeks, and has done little to quell those rumors with his comments.

“It's true that the United States is a country that attracts us a lot on a family level, but to this day there is no agreement with any team anywhere.

“I'm not thinking about retirement, I feel very good this year. I'm hungry to continue competing and I feel healthy to continue competing.”