Pique, Ramos call truce
madrid — Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique are calling a truce.
The veteran defenders from Real Madrid and Barcelona, who have exchanged blows through social media and television interviews recently because of their club rivalry, have declared peace while with Spain’s national team.
“I not going to deny we are used to throwing small stones at each other, but it’s never done with any kind of malice. It’s all in the spirit of sport. It’s all done in good health,” Ramos said as he arrived at Spain’s training camp this week ahead of Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Israel in Gijon.
Key for the success of the team is unity. I think that we have a wonderful group Sergio Ramos
“It’s all part of the rivalry that exists between Barcelona and Real Madrid, and that’s not going to change,” Ramos added. “But it doesn’t mean I won’t go give him a hug when I see him here.”
The 30-year-old central defenders have not shown any signs of animosity despite the recent quarrels off the field. They have been constantly chatting during the team’s practice sessions this week, even joking with each other at times.
“It’s like the things that happen on the field. When the game is over, you go and shake hands with your opponent,” Ramos said. “The key for the success of the team is unity. I think that we have a wonderful group and we have to maintain that.”
Spain coach Julen Lopetegui said the rivalry between the defenders’ does not worry him.
“We joke about it,” Lopetegui told Movistar TV. “We tell them that now they can start tweeting wearing the same jersey.” —