Real Madrid

Dozens of media professionals attended the Christmas luncheon organised by Real Madrid this afternoon in the Presidential Balcony of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

"I wish health and happiness to all, and that the financial stress that currently affects society ends this year."

"This year, the team has improved considerably. We were runners-up in La Liga and were the top scorers in the championship. We reached the Champions League semifinals for the first time in eight years. Cristiano Ronaldo won the Golden Boot award and was the all-time greatest top scorer in La Liga; Casillas received the Golden Glove; Mourinho won the FIFA World Football Coach of the Year 2010 award; and we won the Copa del Rey final. It was an historic match in which Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winning strike and many regard it as the best final in the tournament's history. All Madridistas were looking forward to winning the trophy. One of the best decisions I've made as President was to sign Jose Mourinho. Besides his great merits, he's proven to never give up, regardless of the magnitude of the challenge. He stimulates us and makes us stronger."

"In basketball, we reached the Final Four in the Euroleague for the first time in 15 years. This club is increasingly stronger. The roster is doing a great job and is on the right path."

"I see many familiar faces here, which is always a good sign. It means this is a moment to reflect on the year that now ends and hope for the best in the new year. I wish to thank all of you who follow Real Madrid, even to those who don't like us; you all help us be better."