Since joining CF Monterrey in February, following the end of his spell with Sevilla, the Spanish veteran has become more than a marquee signing — he’s turned into a captain, a scorer, and the emotional leader of a star-studded squad.
In the current Apertura campaign, Ramos has already scored seven goals — most of which have come from set pieces or free kicks — proving that even at nearly 40, his precision and aerial power remain elite. The Rayados sit fourth in the Liga MX table with 27 points and rely heavily on Ramos’s presence both on the field and in the locker room.
However, his future now looks far less specific than it did just weeks ago.
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The Pitchside US Staff
Contract Renewal Stalls: From Almost Done to Doubtful
In mid-October, optimism was high. Ramos told Spanish media that he wanted to stay in Mexico, and club insiders said a one-year extension was nearly agreed upon, including performance bonuses and incentives tied to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. Even clauses involving shirt sales were reportedly on the table.
Then, things changed.
According to sources based on Mexican media reports, negotiations have stalled due to salary differences and questions about Ramos’s overall impact in the domestic league.
Although he stole the show in Monterrey’s draw against Inter Milan at the Club World Cup — where he was named Man of the Match and became the oldest player ever to score in the competition (39 years and 80 days) — his Liga MX performances have drawn mixed reviews from fans and executives.
Club president Tato Noriega recently admitted that no new proposal has been made, saying the focus is entirely on the Liguilla campaign. Internally, the renewal has become a contentious issue. If no agreement is reached, Ramos could become a free agent in December.
MLS, Saudi Arabia, or Retirement? What Comes Next
With his current contract set to expire at the end of 2025, Ramos will be free to negotiate with other clubs starting in January. International sources have linked him to possible interest from MLS, Saudi Arabia, and even Boca Juniors, though no formal negotiations have been confirmed.
Even so, Ramos still has at least one more major stage ahead: he’s been called up to the Liga MX All-Star Game, where he’ll face a team of MLS stars — an event that could once again ignite global attention around his name.
Cover Image: Rayados / X
