Real Madrid

Rafael van der Vaart was officially unveiled as Real Madrid's newest player in a presentation in the Presidential Balcony of the Santiago Bernabéu. The Dutchman was joined by President Ramón Calderón and President of Honor Alfredo Di Stéfano.

Ramón Calderón:
“At the conclusion of the last season, we made it clear that there would be very few, but very good incorporations for the new year. A logical decision having won two straight league titles and signed several young, successful, and dedicated players. It was a commitment that this Board of Directors followed through on and brought to a happy ending. Van der Vaart is the first incorporation of the year and most likely the only incorporation of the year. We feel the squad is very well-rounded, very talented and, above all, a united family which believes in the pillars of drive, hard work, sacrifice, and commitment.”

“Rafael van der Vaart is only 25-years old but has been playing in top flight football since the age of 17; the first five seasons with Ajax and the last three for Hamburg. At 18 he was called up for preparation matches for the German World Cup. He has won two leagues, one Cup, and one Super Cup. He fulfills one of our commitments made and the end of last year, which was to bring in an extraordinary talented player, a defensive midfielder who can score, who has a great vision for the game, and a ton of talent. A player who will surely help us a lot next season. He has just signed a five-year deal with this club, which is the mininum he will be here. We are absolutely positive that he will help complete the great squad we already have. We are also fortunate that he is half Spanish.”

Van der Vaart:  
“Thank you, Mr. President. I don't speak much Spanish, but I am very happy to be able to play for Real Madrid, the best team in the world. Thank you to all of you for making this possible. I am looking forward to joining the squad, to playing, and to winning many titles. Hala Madrid!”

On his way up to the Presidential Balcony, Van der Vaart confessed to Realmadrid.com that  “today my dream has come true.”