Former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has completed a free transfer to Paris Sain-Germain (PSG), the Ligue 1 club announced on Thursday. The Spain defender has signed a two year contract until June 30, 2023. 

The 35-year-old had confirmed his intention to leave Real Madrid, where he spent over 16 years and became one of the best central defenders in the world, last month and bid farewell to the club at a press conference a day later. 

“I am very happy to join Paris Saint-Germain. This is a big change in my life, a new challenge and it’s a day I will never forget,” Ramos was quoted as saying in a statement by PSG.

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“I am very proud to be a part of this ambitious project, to be a part of this squad with so many great players. Paris Saint-Germain is a club that has already proven itself at the highest level. I want to continue to grow and improve at Paris and help the team to win as many trophies as possible.

Meanwhile, PSG chairman and CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi said, “Today, Paris welcomes one of the greatest players of our era. We are delighted to announce that Sergio Ramos has joined us.” 

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“Sergio is a complete footballer, one of the best defenders in the history of the game. He is a born competitor, a leader and a true professional. His vast experience and ambition is in perfect synergy with those of the club. I am proud to see him in a Paris Saint-Germain jersey and I know our supporters will reserve a fantastic welcome for him.”

Ramos made his senior debut with Sevilla FC in the 2003-04 season and signed for Real Madrid in 2005. He went on to make 671 appearances, scoring 101 goals and winning four Champions Leagues and five La Liga titles among a host of other trophies.  

Ramos was also part of the all-conquering Spain side that won three major tournaments in a row, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012. He went on to become the highest capped Spanish and European player, playing 180 times for his national side, scoring 23 times.