Sergio Ramos has revealed he could have earned more money by leaving Real Madrid, but insisted financial issues did not play a part in his decision to sign a new five-year deal at the club amid links to Manchester United.
Ramos will captain Los Blancos this season after committing his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday despite the defender having been rumoured to be a target for United boss Louis van Gaal this summer.
But Ramos, who won the World and European Cups with Spain in 2010 and 2008 respectively, admitted he had snubbed offers from abroad to stay at Real after resolving personal and professional issues with the La Liga outfit - with money not playing any part in his final decision.
"Honestly, if it was an economic decision, I wouldn't have stayed," the 29-year-old said on Monday. "I could have earned more elsewhere.
"It wasn't a question of money, there were personal and professional things we had to organise.
"I've never spoken of my renewal but obviously, with a contract that had two years to go, whatever the press want to say I respect.
"I wasn't happy in certain ways but I never said I wanted to leave. I spoke to who I needed to speak to but I couldn't continue how I was. Those personal things are nothing to do with money.
"The economic situation - the president [Florentino Perez] and I solved that in five minutes. There were other things to talk about.
"I'm not going to talk about money. That never motivated me - happiness and family motivated me. I never said I wanted to leave, my idea was always to be here. I wanted to retire here if the president allowed me.
"I'm very thankful I have a new challenge to be captain of this team and I will do it in the most honest way."
Ramos was subsequently asked whether links to United this summer could result in some fans turning against him, but he replied: "I think they've always given me the same affection. I've never felt anything untowards in the stadium.
"The love from the fans has been important to me staying. They ask a lot but the players know the pressure and the responsibility - obviously I have the same affection.
"Out of respect for the club I've been quiet [through the negotiations]. Throughout my career I've given everything for this club and I will do the same over the next five years.
"We all know the demands at this club but I'm ready for this responsibility to make sure every Madridista is happy."
