Moving to a foreign country and learning a new culture can be tough for anyone, even for global superstars such as Mesut Ozil.
The midfielder had only played for German clubs until he signed for Real Madrid in 2010 but, fortunately for the playmaker, Sergio Ramos was there to take him under his wing.
“When I was in Madrid, Sergio Ramos lived on the same road and I did a lot with him,” he told Arsenal Player. “He was like a big brother to me. He showed me Madrid and helped me to settle quicker, just as Sami Khedira did.
“He lives in a similar way to my culture, to how I grew up. He keeps his closest friends around him and tries to have fun in life, just as I did. We had a great time together back then.
“We’re still in contact. Of course it’s not the same as before because he lives in Madrid and I’m in London, but we will write to each other now and then.”
Ozil will be taking a keen interest in Saturday’s Champions League final between Real Madrid and Juventus in Cardiff.
Ramos has scored in both of Real’s most recent Champions League final wins over cross-city rivals, Atletico, and has a habit of striking late in big games.
“That’s what characterises him,” Ozil said. “He’s not one of the best central defenders in the world or in the history of football for no reason.
“He just wants to be successful and you see on the pitch that he never gives up, right until the last second where some players might say ‘Oh, it’s over’. But his attitude - he’s always there for the team and I’m pleased for him when he scores goal and is successful.”
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