Rafael Nadal speaks out (Image: Getty)
Rafael Nadal has denied reports that he is a candidate to become Real Madrid’s next president. The tennis star made the remarks following a surprising press conference by incumbent Florentino Perez, who was adamant that he would not resign.
There were speculations that the future of Perez, who hosted his first press conference since 2018, was in doubt. Perez, 79, has been in charge since June 2009 and was first elected president in 2000. Following rumors in the Spanish media that he was too tired to carry out his role, Perez called for new elections and said he would run again. Nadal does not plan to be one of his rivals.
The tennis legend posted on social media: “I have read reports relating to my possible candidacy for president of Real Madrid. I would like to make it clear that these reports are not true.”
Perez wowed a packed house at Los Blancos’ Valdebebas training ground. Given the veteran’s vicious words, it may be no wonder Nadal doesn’t want to stand. “Hello. I’m sorry, but I have no intention of resigning,” he said.
“I have taken this decision because of the absurd situation created by a campaign aimed at creating a tide of public opinion against the interests of Real Madrid and in particular against me.
“They take advantage of the fact that we weren’t the best, but you don’t always win in sports, so this is something we accept. This has happened many times before, but they use these situations to attack me personally.”
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Florentino Perez held a press conference, but some thought he might resign. (Image: Getty)
“They say, ‘Where is Florentino?’ We don’t usually talk about it. They say I’m sick and have terminal cancer. I want to reassure those who are worried about me that every day I continue to preside over Real Madrid and my company. As you know, this company has 170,000 employees and an annual turnover of 500. Billion world leader in infrastructure. My health is perfect, because I can’t do both roles without being in perfect health. I don’t know where this rumor came from.
“If they claim I have cancer, I have to go to an oncology center for treatment. If this were true, do you think it wouldn’t have been reported all over the world? It’s not true. They made it up and decided I was tired. I work non-stop. I’m the first to get up and the last to go to bed.”
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Mr Perez called on opponents to openly criticize. “If anyone wants to run for office, this is your chance. But don’t operate in the shadow of publications and news outlets.
“I work hard. I get up early and I’m the last one to go to bed. I understand the frustration there.”
“But what people may forget is that since I’ve been manager we’ve won 37 titles. I want to know the people who are saying these things. I want whoever is leaking this on this board to come forward.”
The Real Madrid manager also harshly criticized La Liga. “And of course, our enemy La Liga,” he added. “We have to fight in La Liga. The corruption in the game is systemic.”
