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Real Madrid news: Barcelona president reveals what he really thinks about Sergio Ramos
REAL MADRID star Sergio Ramos has been praised by Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu ahead of tonight’s Copa del Rey showdown.
Real Madrid will be skippered by Ramos for tonight’s mouthwatering Copa del Rey showdown with Barcelona.
The Spain international has been a shining light amid a difficult campaign over in the capital, scoring 10 goals across all competitions despite spending the majority of his time on the pitch at the back.
Ramos has a dark side to him, though, and is a somewhat marmite figure for many in the footballing world.
While he is capable of the sublime, he also has an appetite for the dark arts - as seen during May’s Champions League final win over Liverpool.
Ramos injured Mohamed Salah that night - though it did not appear to be intentional.
And that sparked an angry backlash from many across the footballing community.
But Barcelona president Bartomeu has lauded the veteran, hailing his leadership skills.
“Ramos is a great captain,” he told Spanish outlet Cadena Cope.
“Very respected with everyone and they have an excellent relationship with our players.”
Sergio Ramos is an 'accomplished' footballer argues pundit
Ramos recently admitted he would be interested in becoming a manager when his time at Real Madrid is over.
The 2010 World Cup winner said: "It's something I would like.
"It feels good when I talk to my team-mates. I advise people, I'm a leader and captain.
“It's something similar to what coaches do."
Bartomeu, meanwhile, also discussed the club’s decision to allow political messages.
Barcelona and Real have a long history of trouble with politics at the very heart of their fascinating rivalry.
And Bartoemeu said: “Barca has always been a space of freedom and any kind of demonstration is allowed, if they are not insults.
“Freedom of expression. I do not know what message will come out, the security of the club opens it and allows any entry.
“It will remain that way, freedom of expression, democracy and respect.”