Sergio Ramos lifts fifth La Liga: Best quotes on Real Madrid captain by Zidane, Suarez, Aguero and others

Real Madrid were crowned La Liga champions for the 34th time on Thursday after Karim Benzema scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Villarreal which clinched the title with one game to spare. The terrific form and leadership of their captain Sergio Ramos has been instrumental in beating their archrivals Barcelona in a close-fought campaign. Arguably the best defender in the world and often criticised for his brutal style, here are 10 quotes on the defender that will give goosebumps to Real Madrid fans.

Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid manager):'I admire and respect Sergio Ramos, & if I could choose defender from outside of my team, he would be the one that I would love to take.'⠀

Paolo Maldini (Italy legend): 'Sergio Ramos is my heir in football. He's very quick, powerful & has great technique.'⠀

Luis Suarez (Barcelona, Uruguay forward): 'Ramos the toughest defender that I've come up against. He's very strong, competitive & has plenty of experience. He is tough.'⠀

Neymar (PSG, Brazil forward): 'Toughest defenders? Hard to say, there are so many, I think Sergio Ramos. He's great.'⠀

Sergio Aguero (Man City, Argentina forward): 'Sergio Ramos is the most difficult defender I've ever faced.'⠀

Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus, Italy defender): 'I think Sergio Ramos is the best defender in the world.'⠀

Juninho (Brazil icon): 'For me Sergio Ramos is the best defender in Spanish football history.'⠀

Thomas Muller (Bayern, Germany forward): 'He's won 3 UCLs in 4 years so I think Sergio Ramos is one top level defender in world.'⠀

Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid manager): 'He always wants to play. Sergio belongs here as a player. He's been here for years and he should retire here. It's what I think and I'll stand by it.' 'He is a great example to the rest of the team. He's our reference for everyone at this club and an example everyone should follow.'

Iker Casillas (Real Madrid, Spain legend): 'You're the f****** boss and will always be the player who delivered LA DÉCIMA!!.' (The then Madrid captain Iker kissed his lieutenant after saying this)