After being heavily criticized for the exit of former Real Madrid captain and club legend Iker Casillas, president Florentino Perez claims the player alone made the decision of leaving Santiago Bernabeu for Porto.
With the club heavily chasing after Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea, many believe that the Merengues board forced the 34-year-old out, something Perez publicly denies.
Speaking at the 10-time Champions League winners’ General Assembly, Perez said:
"Iker alone made the decision to leave following an offer from Porto. He urged us to clear the way for him to accept it and we did just that, among other things because he deserved it. Iker is the best goalkeeper in Real Madrid and Spanish football history. Like I said at his farewell ceremony, his example lives on at the club".
Florentino also held high praise for Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently became the club’s all-time top scorer in La Liga, saying: "There will never be another player like him. He is our top scorer in La Liga and will soon be our leading scorer of all time [in all competitions]".
The club president also blasted the home fans who booed members of the Real Madrid squad last season, claiming it damages the team’s image.
"We should be very demanding, but without losing sight of reality. When fans air their disagreement at the Bernabéu, it damages our image. Going to the Bernabéu should mean cheering on our team, supporting them unconditionally. That's what 'Madridismo' is and it should be unwavering".
