Long-term Chelsea loyal servant and exemplary leader John Terry will draw the curtain on what has been an illustrious career at the Stamford Bridge at the end of the 2016-17 season.
And life without him cannot be imagined given how the defence has often fallen apart and failed to produce quality defending on a consistence basis in his short absence.
On the pitch in the last decade, his leadership qualities and charisma have been far more than instrumental, but without him, the Blues lack a worthy leader able to rally round the team and inspire them when it’s needed most.
In Terry’s permanent absence as from next summer, who should step up to his role? At the moment, no Chelsea player has shown enough quality and consistency needed to lead such a great team. And just maybe a new signing over the summer would be perfect.
A great candidate to take over the soon-to-be-vacant dressing room leadership will be Spain international and Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos, who is no longer an unsellable candidate at the Bernabeu. Not only is the 30-year-old one of the best central halves in the game, he is also a born leader.
If the rumours making the round concerning a possible Conte move for the 2-time Champions League winner are anything to go by, then just maybe it’s exactly what Chelsea need to get it right at the back, and also be under the leadership of a great stalwart.
And here are reasons for that.
Ramos can still deliver at the top level for few more years
The Spain international has been on top of his game for more than 7 years now, and he definitely can add at least 3 more years of worthwhile service to it.
The Blues are known for not extending the contracts of/signing players over 30 years of age for more than a season, but considering how Ramos hasn’t shown any sign of decline in recent times, it’s understandable why Conte sees him as a perfect addition to his backline. Even if it’s just on a short-term basis.
Ramos influence can be of great help to other young defenders
Ramos won’t just be bringing back the steel Terry once used to provide the defence with, his influence will also be exerted on the talented crop of young defenders within the Chelsea rank.
The likes of Alonso, Aina and Zouma could learn a thing or two about quality defending from someone who has won it all for club and country, and that will go a long way in helping their development and growth.
His European experience will come very much handy
With Chelsea gearing for a return to European football next season, having someone that has consistently played at the top level on the continent will be of enormous advantage.
Apart from helping Real Madrid win 2 out of the 3 last Champions League tournaments, Ramos has always been integral, both defensively and offensively in leading Madrid to as far as the semis in the last 6 seasons, and that rich experience will be of great benefits as Chelsea hope to reclaim their status as a top European side.