A year ago, it would have been unthinkable that Sergio Ramos would leave Real Madrid.

But such has been the collapse of his relationship with president Florentino Perez that the skipper’s departure almost comes as no surprise.

In January, the pair sat down to thrash out terms on a new deal, with Ramos‘ existing contract expiring at the end of June.

But when those talks broke down, it signalled the start of a stand-off between the pair that ultimately pushed Ramos towards the exit door.

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The contractual stipulations of both sides were well-known. Ramos – after his service to the club and believing himself to have years left at the top – wanted two more years, with a further two as a coach.

But Florentino Perez couldn’t promise that, and when he tried to impose a salary reduction on the squad this term – something Ramos refused – the last chords binding them were broken.

Ramos felt like he has not been treated how he deserved, something that created a growing rift with Florentino Perez.

But really it was the January meeting that set in motion the chain of events leading to his departure.

And though it was only announced on Wednesday, the wheels have been in motion for a while.

Indeed, incoming returning boss Carlo Ancelotti understood that he wouldn’t be able to count on the 35-year-old.

And in the hierarchy’s recent discussions about the composition of next season’s squad, Ramos‘ name wasn’t being mentioned.

So even though the legendary Andalusian has been around Valdebebas, his meetings with the club have been more about preparing his exit.