Sergio Ramos backs under-fire Julen Lopetegui

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos has insisted that Julen Lopetegui should be given the chance to turn things around at the Bernabeu.

Saturday's 2-1 home defeat to Levante means that Madrid have now lost four of their last five matches in all competitions.

Los Blancos are believed to be on the verge of sacking Lopetegui as Antonio Conte prepares to arrive, but Ramos has insisted that "individual mistakes" cost the European champions on Saturday.

"It's a very bad run that Madrid cannot afford. Not picking up the three points, today the team gave everything but at other times we have had more luck," Ramos told reporters.

"Individual mistakes have condemned us but we should not point the finger at anyone, the only way to turn this around is to be united. Lopetegui is a very motivating person, he convinces, and we have to believe, he is the first to believe, we need unity.

"If I am asked for an opinion, I give it, but I do not think that an opinion of mine could influence such an important decision as the coach's continuity."

Former Spain boss Lopetegui took charge of Madrid on the eve of the 2018 World Cup.