Ramsey’s Dream Team: The Wales Star’s Top-Secret XI
Former Arsenal and Juventus star Aaron Ramsey knows a thing or two about assembling a dream team. As a guest on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, the 33-year-old picked his favorite XI players from his playing days, and the results are fascinating.
With a mix of Arsenal and Juventus talent, Ramsey’s lineup features some of the world’s top players. In goal, he opted for legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, a treat to watch for any football fan. At the back, Ramsey chose a solid defensive unit, with Laurent Koscielny and Giorgio Chiellini forming a formidable centre-back partnership. Danilo and Alex Sandro provide width from full-back, while Cesc Fabregas and Santi Cazorla anchor the midfield.
Attacking wise, Ramsey chose former Wales teammate Gareth Bale on the left flank, with Cristiano Ronaldo on the right. Mesut Ozil’s creativity in midfield makes him a key player, and Olivier Giroud’s finishing ability up front is unmatched. This XI has the talent to compete with any team, and Ramsey’s faith in his players is a testament to their skill and character.
But what’s just as interesting as the team itself is the story behind Ramsey’s 2011 move to Arsenal. In an admission that sheds new light on the transfer saga, the Welsh star revealed he was taken on a tour of Manchester United’s training ground before deciding to opt for the Gunners. It seems Sir Alex Ferguson was on the phone more than once, but it was Arsenal’s assistant manager, Rene Meulensteen, who ultimately won him over. Discussions with Rafa Benitez, Liverpool’s manager at the time, also took place, but Manchester United’s unwillingness to meet the required fee ultimately led to the move.
Ramsey’s trust in Wenger’s vision and plans was the deciding factor, and he’s never regretted his decision. "I felt like he really wanted me," he said. "He was doing the Euros at the time, and they flew me over there when he had a few hours off. We had lunch… everything about him and his vision and his plans."
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