Sergio Ramos has been front and centre of Spain and Real Madrid’s greatest triumphs in the last decade and he will be leading La Furia Roja as captain at a World Cup for the first time.
Say what you will about his disciplinary record, sometimes harebrained moves and other valid criticism of his style, few centre-backs at the World Cup will be as crucial as him.
His combination with Gerard Pique will be crucial for Spain’s fabled midfield and their confidence to drive forward and strut their stuff. His ability to cover for the fullbacks and make great interceptions will be crucial. This is because, in manager Julen Lopetegui’s system, the fullbacks will be tasked with providing the width for the team
Given that Dani Carvajal and Alvaro Odriozola are the right-backs at the tourney (both are very attack-minded), Ramos’ knowledge of the role (he started out as a right-back) would be crucial for the team’s defensive solidity.
In a team filled with nice guys, his old-school bastardy and ability to roughhouse with the best of them will give the team an edge especially in the later stages of the competition.