Sergio Ramos has attempted to halt any talk of Jose Mourinho returning to Real Madrid, saying that the team has won plenty without him.
The Portuguese's three year spell at the Santiago Bernabeu came to an end in 2013, winning a La Liga title and a Copa Del Rey during his time in charge. Madrid would go on to win the Champions League the season after he left, and Ramos was quick to point out how successful the team had been since Mourinho's departure.
Speaking ahead of the Real's Club World Cup final against Al Ain of the UAE, the defender was asked if he thought his former boss should return to the club.
I'm nobody to say who I want to be coaching. The captains don't have such a level of decision
We've been without Mourinho here for five years and you're still talking about him! And we've won everything. Solari is here now and we must respect him.
Madrid have endured a pretty torrid season in relation to their incredibly high standards, sitting five points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona in fourth place. Some have speculated that Mourinho could be the man to turn their fortunes around despite his struggles at United.
It appears as though Ramos need not worry, however. Marca are reporting that Mourinho is not in the club's short-term or long-term plans, with members of the board feeling that it would be 'counterproductive' to bring him back to the Spanish capital.
It is expected that Madrid will appoint a new manager at the end of the current season, with Santiago Solari unlikely to be a long-term option. Mauricio Pochettino is believed to be their main target, although they will likely face competition from Manchester United for his services.
