New Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui admits ‘yesterday was the saddest day of my life, but today is the happiest.’
Lopetegui was officially unveiled by Madrid on Friday, just two days after he was confirmed as Zinedine Zidane’s successor and 24 hours on from being sacked by Spain, who claim the Coach went behind their back to negotiate with Los Blancos.
“I hope I don’t get too excited because it’s a day to be excited and for me to say what I want to say,” began the 51-year-old.
“Thank you President, thank you very much Real Madrid, for the faith you’ve shown me and for giving me this responsibility, which I take on with pride and strength.
“I know this club, they demand the maximum.
“Everything isn’t enough here. We’ll try to give our best, we’ll fight to satisfy the club’s history and improve on it.
“I feel qualified to take on such an adventure, plus I’ve felt the strength and energy that accompany Madrid. As a Coach, I’ll need those things.
“Without a doubt, we’re going to use them so we can keep growing, managing this group of great players and sticking together so we can reach the highest peaks.
“We’ll aspire to win everything. Yesterday was, possibly since the death of my mother, the saddest day of my life, but today is the happiest of my life.
“I reiterate my thanks to everyone. I feel part of the Madrid family. Thank you very much, and I’m down for whatever’s needed.”
