Sergio Ramos announces Spain retirement, slams manager

Sergio Ramos, the legendary Spanish footballer, announced his retirement from international football on Tuesday, August 17, 2021. The decision comes after he was left out of the Spanish squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Ramos, who has 180 caps for Spain and captained the team to the 2010 World Cup and two European Championship titles, took to social media to express his disappointment with the manager, Luis Enrique.

In a statement posted on his Instagram account, Ramos said, "After a lot of thinking and considering, I have decided to leave the Spanish national team. I feel it's time to step aside and let the younger players take over. I have had an amazing time with the team, winning trophies that will always be in my heart."

Ramos also expressed his frustration with the manager's decision to leave him out of the squad, saying, "I respect the decision of the coach, but I think the way it was handled was a lack of respect. It hurts me not to be able to help my teammates, and it hurts me not to be able to defend my country. But I believe that all this can be solved with a conversation, face to face, and with the right intentions."

Ramos has been an integral part of the Spanish national team for over a decade, and his departure marks the end of an era. He has been a leader both on and off the pitch and has inspired generations of young Spanish footballers.

Ramos' retirement also comes at a time when the Spanish national team is going through a period of transition. The team is currently rebuilding after a disappointing performance at Euro 2020, where they were knocked out in the semi-finals by Italy.

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) released a statement thanking Ramos for his services to the national team. The statement read, "The RFEF wants to thank Sergio Ramos for his commitment, his dedication, and his passion for the Spanish national team throughout all these years."

Ramos' retirement will undoubtedly leave a big void in the Spanish national team, but it also provides an opportunity for younger players to step up and take on the mantle of leadership.

In conclusion, Sergio Ramos' retirement from international football marks the end of an era in Spanish football. His departure will be felt by fans and teammates alike, but it also provides an opportunity for the next generation of Spanish footballers to shine. The manner in which he announced his retirement and his criticism of the manager has sparked a debate about the future of Spanish football, and it remains to be seen how the team will cope without their talismanic captain.