Sergio Ramos has claimed the UEFA Champions League is something greatly desired at the club but insists its not an obsession.
Los Blancos have not won the famous trophy since 2002 despite years of copious spending on some of the world’s best players.
Rivals Barcelona have won the competition on three occasions since then and Sergio Ramos has revealed the desire to win is greater than with any other competition.
“It’s clearly a competition that’s very dear to the club, and it’s been a long time now since we held that title,” Ramos told FIFA.com. “I’m not sure it’s an obsession but the desire to win it is greater than for any other competition.
“I think it would be wrong though to let it become an obsession.”
Schalke will be Real Madrid’s next opponents in the Champions League round of 16 and Ramos is aware of the threat they pose.
“We need to just take it step by step, like we’ve done in recent years – reaching the semi-final and almost making the final. If we can go all the way, then even better, no?
“It’s tricky, but Real Madrid are obliged to fight till the death for that trophy.”
Carlo Ancelotti’s men are one point behind Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga.
Follow Louis Gibberd-Thomas on Twitter: @mercutio156
