Florentino Perez has reflected on the ‘quantum leap’ he would like Jose Mourinho’s time at Real Madrid to be remembered for.
The Portuguese has left the Santiago Bernabeu after three years that yielded a Copa del Rey, League title and Supercopa de Espana, but also drew criticism for his reported fallings out with a number of players.
However, for his now former President, Mourinho’s work was a step up from what was before.
“Manuel Pellegrini was a great Coach, but we were in a dynamic where we understood that he was not right for the club,” reflected Perez on Onda Cero.
“We went for Mourinho to take a leap in quality and he provided that for us. Prior to not winning against Barcelona, we had won Leagues with 68 points and had then just lost with 96.”
Perez also spoke on TVE about the 50-year-old’s work for Madrid.
“He is the victim of a vicious attack from everyone. We think of the fact that we had several years without moving past the Last 16 of the Champions League and with him we have reached three semi-finals.
“I would like that Mourinho’s stage is remembered as that of someone we have taken a quantum leap with from the slump we were in.
“Mourinho only had power in his area, which was sporting. It seems we had given him the club. He believes that his personality protects the players.
“Sometimes it seemed that you had to choose between Mourinho and Casillas.
“I do not think that he had an agreement with Chelsea back in January. Had we won the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, I am convinced he would have stayed.
“Mourinho has always said Madrid is another dimension. It does not hurt me that he fails to mention Real Madrid on his first day in London because I know what he thinks.
“Real Madrid and he are fully bonded.”
Reports are that Madrid will turn to Carlo Ancelotti as his replacement.
“He has not yet arrived, for now, no. He is a Coach that fits well with the culture of Real Madrid. He has proven to be one of the great Coaches that can win anywhere.
“We have good relations with PSG and the only information we have had is that his contract is terminated, and now it seems that this is not so.”
Zinedine Zidane will return in the capacity of sporting director.
“We have three months to prepare. Next week we will meet with Zidane, we will discuss technical aspects and then think of players.
“Zidane was a great player, he is of Madrid and has made his home here. Now we want someone at a technical level and he is the best person to help us.
“In the coming days, Zidane and the technical staff will meet and decide on what we want for the season ahead.
“Slowly, because it is important not to do it by tomorrow, but to do it well.”
Perez was asked of reports that Cristiano Ronaldo is refusing to sign a new contract.
“There are no negotiations open, they will start in July. My opinion is that Cristiano is going to retire at Real Madrid. Some believe that negotiations are carried out in the papers.”
