Ramos had missed the game because in the first leg against Ajax he intentionally got himself a yellow card to miss this game, and thus prevent suspension later in the tournament.
The plan backfired spectacularly, however, as Ajax won 4-1 in Madrid, winning the tie 5-3 on aggregate and knocking Real out of the Champions League for the first time since the 2014/15 season.
"Of course," Solari said to Movistar when asked about whether they missed Ramos. "Without talking badly about any of our players, of course we missed our captain."
"The season is difficult, but we are here to show our heart and character in difficult moments," added Solari.
"Easy moments are easy for everyone, you can climb up and surf them, but difficult moments you have to show bravery."