Sergio Ramos and Monterrey may have bowed out of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, but their performance left a strong impression on the global stage. The Spanish defender, a recent addition to Rayados, acknowledged the growing stature of Mexican soccer - calling it comparable to the world’s top leagues.
After Monterrey’s round-of-16 loss to Borussia Dortmund, Ramos highlighted the quality of the Liga MX and emphasized that those who truly understand the game already recognize its value.
“The quality is there”
“Mexican soccer is growing steadily, with talent and projection that’s comparable to the major leagues,” Ramos said. “But change doesn’t happen overnight - it takes time, and the Liga MX is in that process.”
He added: “People who know the game - who’ve seen players from our league succeed in Spain, the Premier League, the Bundesliga - they know the quality is there. It doesn’t need to be sold. Anyone with a bit of soccer knowledge can see it.”
“We walk away with our heads held high”
Ramos joined Monterrey earlier this year. While the domestic campaign was inconsistent - leading to the dismissal of head coach Martín Demichelis - the Club World Cup told a different story.
Rayados went unbeaten in the group stage, drawing with Inter Milan and River Plate and defeating Urawa Red Diamonds. Even in the loss to Dortmund, they dominated possession and pushed for the win. Ramos said the team leaves the tournament with pride.
“Fans and those who understand the game saw a team that gave everything - heart, soul, and effort,” he said. “Sometimes soccer goes your way, sometimes it doesn’t. We suffered a tough loss, but we walk away with our heads held high, proud of how we played from start to finish.”
Monterrey now returns to Nuevo León to prepare for the start of the Liga MX Apertura 2025 tournament and their upcoming participation in the Leagues Cup.