Real Madrid News
Jacobo Ramon talks Mbappe, Kroos, Modric, possible Real Madrid return: ‘I’m focused on the present’
Jacobo Ramon is one of many Real Madrid academy graduates to have sought first-team football away from the Bernabeu, having joined Italian side Como last season.
The defender, who made his Real Madrid debut in January 2025, is now looking to establish himself in Italy under Cesc Fabregas, with Los Blancos retaining a buy-back option.
Speaking to EFE during Spain’s Under-21 training camp, Ramon touched on a possible Real Madrid return, the exodus of academy talent and the Ballon d’Or race, among other things.
On his future and a Real Madrid return
The centre-back made clear his focus remains firmly on the present and his development at Como.
“I’m focused on the present. I’m very happy at Como and I’m only thinking about doing my best this season, winning a lot of games and getting as far as possible,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).
He also offered his take on the wave of young players leaving Real Madrid for opportunities elsewhere.
“It’s a good sign because it shows how well the youth academy is working,” Ramon said.
“They wouldn’t get as many minutes with the first team, but they do get them playing time elsewhere, giving them the confidence to develop as footballers and show what fantastic players they are.”
On Barcelona’s academy and breaking through at Madrid
Ramon was asked whether he felt any envy at how Barcelona hand opportunities to their academy players.
“Honestly, no. Every player has their own path, their own timing, and makes the best decision they think is right for them.
“At Barça, if they’re given the opportunity and they want to stay, and so on, but at Madrid, if you see that you can get more playing time or if you think it’s best to leave and develop, then go for it. But, no, no envy whatsoever,” he said.
He also addressed the challenge of establishing oneself at Real Madrid.
“At Real Madrid, you have the best players in the world; playing time isn’t handed out, but last year saw the most debuts.
“Two years ago, I debuted, along with Chema (Andres), Victor (Munoz), Gonzalo (Garcia), so many people, and I’m sure more will make their debuts,” he noted.
On the Ballon d’Or and Mbappe
Finally, Ramon gave his verdict on the Ballon d’Or race, backing former teammate Kylian Mbappe, who himself has been making a push for the award.
“There are many opinions. For me, Mbappe has had a fantastic season; he’s a fantastic player. Plus, having trained with him, I know he’s unstoppable, and for me, between him and Lamine (Yamal), they’re the candidates,” he said.
The defender, who trained against Real Madrid’s stars during his time at the club, also revealed which players he found toughest to face.
“In training, definitely. (Toni) Kroos and (Luka) Modric impressed me a lot, but as defenders, Mbappe and Vinicius are tough,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Here is what Real Madrid forward Vinicius said after being sent off against Villarreal: ‘What madness’
Vinicius Jr.’s sending-off is the topic of discussion, stealing all the limelight in Madrid, and understandably so, given how the foul was absolutely unnecessary.
As a result of his moment of madness, the player now stands to miss El Clasico and will likely be unavailable for three games for Los Blancos.
The player, however, has no one to blame for his situation but himself. For starters, the offense was blatantly red-card worthy, and he only made matters worse with his reaction and outburst.
What Vinicius Jr. said
The series of events that led to the player’s red card was extraordinary, with him scoring a goal, celebrating wildly, even with the manager, Jose Mourinho, who ran halfway across the field.
The referee ruled out the goal and showed the player the red card after VAR intervention, and DAZN via The Touchline now bring to light what Vinicius said after that to aggravate the punishment.
“Red? Red? Why are you doing this?,” the player reportedly shouted at the referee immediately after being sent off.
Midfield star Jude Bellingham then joined the scene with a strong statement against the referee as well, as he said,
“This isn’t football anymore.”
Heading towards the dressing room, the player then hit out at the match officials’ decision with anger, “What madness!.”
“Sh*t league!,” he added.
An added punishment
There are two elements of Vinicius’ sending off mentioned in the referee’s report that will dictate the punishment he faces – the offense itself and the player’s reaction to the red card.
Ideally, his suspension with a red card for hair-pulling would only be for two games, but the player’s violent conduct and words after being sent off aggravate his crime.
As a result of the same, he could well face an extended sanction that may extend up to four games – something that comes as a massive blow for Real Madrid.
His participation in the Clasico is ruled out at this point, but Mourinho and Co. will hope the player’s reaction is forgiven and the punishment is lightened. If he indeed misses four games, he will be out against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Club and Valencia.
