News Focus
- Real Madrid president Florentino Perez held a rare 63-minute press conference on Tuesday
- Perez attacked specific journalists and Spanish outlet ABC during the heated event
- The club faces criticism after a second season without major silverware
- Jose Mourinho remains the leading candidate to replace current manager Alvaro Arbeloa
- Barcelona have strongly criticised Perez’s comments, calling them “pathetic”
Florentino Perez has shocked Spanish football with an extraordinary attack on the media. The Real Madrid president spoke for over an hour on Tuesday. He arrived 18 minutes late to the surprise press conference.
Perez named individual reporters during his speech. He also attacked the ABC newspaper. This came after weeks of criticism about his recent comments. Some people accused him of making sexist remarks to female journalists.
The club has not won a major trophy for two seasons. Fans blame Perez for poor decisions. Many expected him to show strength. Instead, he appeared confused and angry.
The timing is interesting. Jose Mourinho is likely to become the new manager. The Portuguese coach currently works at Benfica. He would replace Alvaro Arbeloa at the Bernabeu.
Mourinho faces a difficult job. Real Madrid has lost many experienced players. Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos and Nacho Fernandez have all left. The dressing room lacks strong leaders.
Perez has chosen the last two managers. Neither appointment succeeded. The pressure is now on to make the correct decision this time.
Meanwhile, rivals Barcelona have reacted strongly. They called Perez’s words “pathetic”. One opponent is also considering running against Perez for the presidency.
There are also transfer rumours about Federico Valverde. Manchester United are reportedly interested in the midfielder. This follows reports of problems between the player and his teammates.