Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has indicated he is considering two candidates to succeed Alvaro Arbeloa, while also directly addressing speculation linking Jose Mourinho with a return to the Santiago Bernabéu. The comments come as the club gears up for a presidential election on June 7, a contest Perez believes is being influenced by “shadowy movements” and a rival he has sharply criticized.
Speaking to Television Espanola, Perez confirmed that the decision on Real Madrid’s next manager is imminent. While he has two names in mind, he clarified that no formal discussions have taken place with Mourinho, despite acknowledging the Portuguese coach’s credentials.
“I’m thinking about it. Do I have a name in mind? Two. Mourinho? He’s a good coach, clearly. I’m not going to announce it because I haven’t spoken to him yet,” Perez stated, keeping the identity of his preferred candidates under wraps. The outcome of the upcoming presidential election is widely expected to play a significant role in determining who ultimately takes the helm.
A contentious presidential race
The looming election sees Perez challenged by Enrique Riquelme, a rivalry that has quickly turned acrimonious. Perez did not mince words when discussing his opponent, drawing parallels to a controversial period in the club’s past. He suggested that Riquelme’s candidacy echoes the “sinister” era of former president Ramon Calderon, a time often viewed negatively in Real Madrid’s history.
Read also: '100 per cent!' Owen demands Arteta start Arsenal star against PSG
Perez also made a serious financial accusation against Riquelme, claiming his rival has secured a loan at an extraordinary 54 percent annual interest rate. This charge was used to question Riquelme’s motivations for seeking the presidency.
“And when I see the other candidacy, it turns out they’re the same people from Calderon’s time, which was the most sinister period in Real Madrid’s history. Furthermore, they say that this man (referring to Riquelme) has taken out a loan at 54 percent annual interest. How can anyone ask for that? And I’m not making this up. It seems like he’s come here because he needs the club for his own business,” Perez asserted, according to Television Espanola.
The veteran president also revealed his rationale for calling the elections, citing a perceived threat to the club’s stability. “I was detecting a shadowy movement aimed at destabilizing the club through me. And since I still believe in the members, I called for elections,” he explained, emphasizing his commitment to protecting Real Madrid’s interests. With both a new manager and a new presidential term on the horizon, the coming weeks promise to be pivotal for the Spanish giants.
Sources: www.rtve.es
Read also: One statistic could decide Arsenal vs PSG in the Champions League final
Read also: The 8 leagues with the biggest total salary bills – Ranked
