Sergio Ramos insists he never contemplated playing for any other club bar Real Madrid during the entirety of his trophy-laden career with the Spanish giants.
The 35-year-old is a free agent after it was officially confirmed on Wednesday that he would leave the club at which he has spent the last 16 years, establishing his reputation as one of the world's best defenders.
At an emotional press conference on Thursday, talk inevitably turned towards his future amid speculation that Chelsea, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain are leading the chase to sign Ramos.
The World Cup and four-times Champions League winner refused, however, to drop any clues as to his potential next destination, but emphatically ruled out the notion of him every playing for Real's great rivals Barcelona and played down a possible return to his boyhood club Sevilla.
'We never thought in any moment about any other team,' he said. 'Since January I've been on market, so there have been some calls, interested clubs.
'But we never had in mind leaving Real Madrid. From now, we will look for a good option
'Sevilla is the other club of my heart, had marvelous time there. But today I am not thinking about that option. Barca would be a resounding no, impossible to see Ramos in a Barca shirt.
'These have been difficult months, not easy at all. I am fully happy when I'm on the pitch. But now I can say I am recovered, really looking forward to competing again.'
Ramos, meanwhile, was a surprise omission from Luis Enrique's Spanish squad which is currently competing at the European Championships.
La Roja began their campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Sweden, but Ramos insists he holds no grudge against the current national team boss.
He said: 'I understand Luis Enrique's decisions, won't judge them. I was looking to be in the best condition to represent my country. I am sad not to be at the Euros, but I will battle to recover my best level.'
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