Real Madrid

Following this evening's Board meeting, President Floentino Perez read a statement to the media in the Press Room of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium announcing a change of coach on the first football team. The Real Madrid Premier then answered several questions.

Statement
"We have spent a lot of time during the past few weeks analysing everything that happened during the season. Following this process, the Board of Directors has today decided to end Manuel Pellegrini's era as coach of Real Madrid. We wish to thank him for the work he and his staff did. His professional character, devotion and conduct were impeccable."

"The Board has also decided to sign Jose Mourinho as the team's new coach as soon as his contractual relationship with Inter Milan is resolved. Changing coaches is always a hard decision to make, but we are convinced that, after the first year in this new phase, it is now time to give this project a new boost. Last year, we made unprecedented efforts to come up with a squad capable of aspiring to the highest level. We've come a long way, but we still have more to go. This club, its Board and its fans permanently strive for excellence, victories and European leadership."

Answers
"No one in the Board has expressed an opinion against the signing of Mourinho. We are all thrilled about getting the chance to have one of the best coaches in the world. Mourinho and Inter still have to resolve an issue regarding their contract. There's nothing we can do about that. We are convinced of needing a new boost and the idea of having Mourinho lead this squad in the next few years delights us. This club always tries to have the best in every position and job, and we've had the chance to see this through. He is one of the best coaches in the world, if not the best, and this Real Madrid, which strives to achieve excellence, couldn't miss out on such an opportunity. Excellence is our goal. We want to win and be leaders."

"Real Madrid wants stability, which we understand as being leaders in Europe and the rest of the world. Real Madrid changed coaches in the years it won its first five European Cup titles. Stability comes from winning and being European leaders. We believe this is the right time for us to take a new step and bet on having one of the best coaches in the world."