Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has declared that outgoing manager Jose Mourinho deserves nothing but respect from all connected to the club.

Mourinho will end a three-year association with Madrid this weekend when he takes charge of his final match as manager against Osasuna.

Ramos has insisted that Mourinho's methods helped take his game to another level despite persistent rumours of unrest in the Madrid dressing room.

He told reporters: "We respect the decision, everyone is free to choose their own future.

"I only have good words for Mourinho. On a professional level, he is one of the best coaches in the world and has helped me to compete at the highest level.

"I respect him on a personal level."

Madrid continued their La Liga campaign last night with an entertaining 3-3 draw away to Champions League contenders Real Sociedad.