Monterrey Boss Breaks Silence on Sergio Ramos' Playoff Fate as Apertura Showdown Looms

Monterrey's president José Antonio Noriega has acknowledged that "discussions are ongoing" regarding a contract extension for Sergio Ramos, though the organization remains entirely concentrated on their Apertura quarterfinal matchup against América.

Ramos, who became part of the Liga MX team in February, faces contract expiration at year's end with Rayados. Should no extension materialize in the upcoming weeks, the Spanish defender will enter free agency status.

The skipper's unclear contractual situation has sparked conversations as the year concludes, both amongst supporters and internally within the organization. However, Noriega provided reassurance to fans that Monterrey is actively pursuing an agreement with the former Real Madrid star.

"Absolutely, discussions are taking place, which is standard procedure," Noriega stated to media representatives before Monterrey's forthcoming encounter at Estadio BBVA.

"I prefer not to elaborate on specifics as it creates distractions from our primary focus, which centers on team preparation and strategizing against a formidable opponent like América."

Ramos is positioned to make his 31st club appearance during the playoff encounter. The central defender has scored seven goals throughout his brief Liga MX tenure.

Ramos Aims to Guide Monterrey to Liga MX Apertura 2025 Championship

Monterrey secured fifth position in the standings, qualifying for a quarterfinal matchup against fourth-placed América. Confronting the 16-time Liga MX title holders rarely represents an ideal draw, though Rayados possess several encouraging recent encounters to reference.

These teams last met on September 20 in a contest that concluded 2–2. Domènec Torrent's squad established a two-goal advantage before allowing two goals during the match's final 10 minutes.

In their previous encounter, Monterrey triumphed over América 1–0 courtesy of Nelson Deossa's solitary strike.

Ramos participated fully in both matches, but Wednesday's battle marks his inaugural playoff confrontation with the Liga MX powerhouse. The 39-year-old veteran aims to guide both his defensive unit and entire squad to an impressive home performance in the opening leg before traveling for the decisive encounter at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes.