The former La Roja boss was officially named as Los Blancos' new tactician for the next three seasons, but he had to deal with criticism from members of the media.

In what could be included in a list of the weirdest press conferences in history, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez unveiled Julen Lopetegui as Los Blancos' coach for the next three seasons.

The Spanish boss, who was fired yesterday by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), explained why he chose to announce the deal with Los Blancos just 72 hours away from making his World Cup debut with La Roja.

"I would have loved it if Rubiales (RFEF president) had acted differently. Being loyal involves telling the truth. Once I knew what would happen, I told him. He even congratulated me. I wanted to hold a press conference that same day, but I had to wait for him. I believed that the agreement with Real Madrid had to be sealed before the World Cup, not during, and I tried to keep things real by telling the truth," Lopetegui stated.

After explaining his reasons to reveal the deal, Lopetegui aimed a dig at previous and current RFEF execs.

"That group of players has endured tough times, even having to deal with four different presidents in just two years. Hopefully they'll find the strength to win the World Cup," the coach added.

Then, Lopetegui described his feelings after how things developed in the last couple of days.

"Yesterday ranks as the saddest day of my life, the first being the day when my mother died. Today is the happiest day of my life. I managed Real Madrid Castilla before and now I'll get to coach the first team. The circle is now complete," the coach concluded.

His new employer, Florentino Pérez, also spoke about the Spanish Federation's decision to remove Lopetegui from his duties after the deal was announced.

"Our goal was to avoid rumors. I spoke with the Federation's president as soon as we struck a deal, and I told him it would be in effect after the World Cup. What seemed to be another day at the office turned into a matter of absurd pride. There's nothing you can tell me that justifies their decision. Julen should have been allowed to coach Spain in the World Cup," Pérez stated.

Lopetegui offers Cristiano an "olive branch"

Real Madrid's new coach didn't hesitate when asked about Cristiano Ronaldo's future, hinting that he wants to coach the player after the World Cup.

"He's the player I want to have around forever. The best player in the world performs at Real Madrid, I have no doubt about it," Lopetegui stated.