MEXICO CITY, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Sergio Ramos said Sunday that he is more motivated than ever to add to his collection of silverware as he embarks on a new chapter in his trophy-laden career with Mexican club Monterrey.
The winner of four UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid and the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Spain joined Monterrey on a free transfer last week and has made clear that he will not rest on past achievements.
"My track record can't be erased but I didn't come here to boast about what I've won," the 38-year-old told a news conference.
"I've never played here and that excited me. I want to leave a legacy in Mexico. I'm not here for a holiday. I'm here to try to win new titles."
The 38-year-old, who has not played since parting ways with Sevilla last June, agreed to a contract that runs until December.
According to media reports in Mexico, Los Rayados beat off competition for Ramos' signature from suitors in Saudi Arabia, Argentina and the United States.
The Liga MX club had prioritized the signing of a center-back after Carlos Salcedo suffered a serious knee injury in his first training session with the club last month.
"The club's desire to grow and improve, along with the opportunity to play in multiple competitions, really attracted me," Ramos said. "I'm here to help the team succeed and to bring joy to the fans.
"My challenge is to come and win. I've been told that it's a physically demanding league and that's why it appeals to me. I like challenges and hopefully it'll be an entertaining and competitive season and, who knows, maybe we can win [the league]."
Ramos admitted that he would need time to regain match fitness and declined to specify an exact date for his Monterrey debut.
"I've continued working day after day although it hasn't been easy to be at home and I've missed football," he said. "I just need two or three weeks to adapt and understand how the team works." ■
