Real Madrid president Perez calls for elections

"“I'm here to say I'm not going anywhere and I'm here to stand for election,” the 79-year-old told the gathered press. “If someone does want to stand for election, this is your opportunity. But don't move in the shadows with publications, news outlets. ”And I'm not in bed, unwell. I have to come out and sit here because as Real Madrid president, I can't allow journalists to do what they do.”"

"Perez has been office since June 2009, having previously been president between 2000 and 2006, and the perception that he is now too tired to fulfil his role has been the subject of anonymous briefing in Spanish press. He reacted furiously to the suggestion at the press conference in the Spanish capital, demanding those questioning him to out themselves. “I work hard. I'm up early and I'm the last to go to bed. I understand there's frustration out there.”"

"“But if people have forgotten, we have won 37 titles since I've been in charge. I would like to know the people who are saying these things. In these board of directors, I want whoever who is leaking this to come out.” Perez did not target solely journalists and potential rivals for his presidency, with La Liga also a subject of harsh criticism. “And of course, the enemy, La Liga,” he added."

"“We have to battle against La Liga. Corruption in the game, systematic.” However, he also expressed confidence in his re-election by the 79-year-old, who insisted he will stand again and spoke of an “organised campaign” against his leadership, telling his opponents not to “move in the shadows” and to instead contest the election."

Florentino Perez held a tense press conference after Real Madrid failed to win trophies, insisting he would not step down and would stand for election. He told journalists and potential challengers to contest the election directly rather than operate through anonymous publications and news outlets. Perez said he had to appear publicly because, as president, he could not allow journalists to act without accountability. He reacted angrily to claims that he was too tired for the role, demanding the people leaking information identify themselves. Perez also criticized La Liga, calling out corruption and systematic problems, while expressing confidence in his re-election.

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