New Real Madrid signing David Alaba has explained why he took Sergio Ramos' No. 4 jersey after he was officially unveiled by the club.
The Austria international joined the Spanish giants from Bayern Munich on a free transfer after his contract with the Bundesliga side ran out at the end of last season.
Alaba has since insisted that Ramos' old number was the only one available, and that he is not coming in as the Spaniard's direct replacement.
"Well, I spoke to the club about that. They offered me this number, because there was no other possible number," Alaba said, as per the club's official website.
"I know what this number means for the club. For me, wearing it is something that motivates me a lot. It is a number that shows strength and leadership. I'm going to give it my all.
"He [Ramos] has been here for a decade and became a leader wearing this number. Everyone's is aware of it. I was told yesterday that it was the only number available and I didn't want to start talking to other players to see if they would give me their number.
"That's a big motivation for me, and I want to represent it and honour it. I've said that on a few occasions. But I want to repeat that I am not here to compare myself with others. I want to show my strengths and continue to be David Alaba."
