Sergio Ramos brushes off Antoine Griezmann’s claims that he belongs in the same conversation with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
In his press conference prior to their Champions League game, Sergio Ramos criticized recent comments made by Antoine Griezmann.
The French striker recently expressed his disappointment that he was not of the finalists for “The Best Award.” In an interview with Spanish Outlet, AS, he also mentioned that he considers himself to be “dining at the same table” with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Apparently this did not sit well with Sergio Ramos.
"Ramos said, “Ignorance makes you very bold.”"
Ramos then listed names like Totti, Xavi, Iniesta, Casillas, etc. as examples of players who have won countless titles but never a Ballon d’Or as a way to put Griezmann’s claims into context.
"He added, “He needs to be advised by Simeone, Godin, Koke, and players like this and get back to the values that suit them.”"
Perhaps the criticism toward Griezmann is warranted but Sergio Ramos is maybe the last player to talk about values considering the controversies the Real Madrid defender has been mired in.
However, he does have a point that Griezmann’s gripes over not winning individual awards are a bit selfish considering the lack of fuss other players, like the ones he mentioned, made when they were overlooked.
Griezmann’s made similar comments before.
In an interview with L’Equipe, he was making the case for himself winning the Ballon d’Or. He believes that winning the World Cup with France should have, at least, made him a nominee.
"Griezmann said, “I would ask myself what I would have to do more. I have won three trophies, I’ve been important in decisive moments. But it’s not me who votes.”"
This is the latest chapter in the spat between Sergio Ramos and Antoine Griezmann. Aside from their club rivalry, this stems from Griezmann poking a little fun at Real Madrid after Atletico won the European Super Cup.
Griezmann shared an Instagram picture where he’s sitting on a throne and he’s being crowned by Sergio Ramos. It seems that Ramos did not take too kindly to that.
We’ll have to wait and see if Griezmann responds to the criticism. The two come face to face in less than two weeks when Atletico and Real Madrid face off at the Santiago Bernabeu.