Real Madrid president Florentino Perez held a press conference on May 13, addressing speculation about a potential managerial change and the club’s future.
When asked about potential signings or a new coach, Perez stated: “I will not talk about coaches or players. I came here to return the club’s assets to the members. Right now, those assets are being taken away from them. There are people who want me to leave, but I will not go. I will run in the election because I want to defend one thing: Real Madrid must remain in the hands of its members. I will not discuss sporting matters. Some journalists are trying to undermine Real Madrid’s ownership structure. Those who want to stand for election should understand that now is their chance, but don’t speak behind my back. I’ve heard every kind of rumor.”
Regarding a possible return of Jose Mourinho, Perez said: “I didn’t expect you to ask that. Now is not the time to talk about it. What we need to resolve now is to ensure Real Madrid remains owned by its members, because some are trying to take it away. I want to discuss things with them, and I hope they step up to run. I want to ask them what they have done for Real Madrid in their lives. I have to put an end to this absurd campaign against the club. Real Madrid has never been as great as it is today. Some people have named me the best president in club history—even the best in the history of all clubs. Saying that makes me embarrassed myself. Today we are not talking about football.”
When asked about a performance analysis on the sporting side, Perez responded: “There will be one. We have to fight many people—very many people. If you are a journalist from COPE, then tell Castaño that he should show more respect for the best club in history. He talks about it every hour, every day.”
Perez also took aim at other media outlets: “Onda Cero? Please go talk to Segurola… I have one in every media outlet.”