Real Madrid News
Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’
Jose Mourinho became the first to take part in Real Madrid’s official presentation of their new signings this summer.
As already reported, the Merengues have decided to do away with grand presentations with fans and media and instead opted for a low-key event.
As such, the coach was accompanied only by Florentino Perez during the ceremony.
There were no family members or media present. Real Madrid TV was the only outlet to provide images of the event, and it did not broadcast Mourinho’s presentation live.
A private welcome for Mourinho
Mourinho and Perez watched a video featuring the coach from his first spell on the Real Madrid bench, along with footage from this pre-season.
That was followed by the formal signing of his three-year contract, a photograph of Mourinho holding a shirt with his name on the back, and the presentation of gifts from the president.
The Portuguese coach received a replica of the stadium, a watch and a shirt bearing his name.
Honorary president Jose Martínez Pirri also attended the ceremony. After a final embrace, that was it for Mourinho’s presentation.
Mourinho speaks out
Following the act of presentation, Mourinho briefly spoke with Real Madrid TV, wherein he delivered a short but touching message to the Madridistas.
“It’s like coming home. It’s even better than the first time I came. That time it was the feeling of reaching the top as a coach. Now it’s more emotional,” he said.
“I am one of you (Madridistas). Always have been, ever since I left.”
“Working for Real Madrid means a great deal to me. The responsibility of working for the club is paramount and something everyone at Valdebebas should feel,” Mourinho added.
Continuing, the manager noted: “Words aren’t enough… because it’s like a mission . It’s not about being worried about myself or whether I’m going to earn a lot or a little.
“I’m here to help everyone be better: players, staff… To create a culture of work, responsibility, ambition , and something I know well, which is the responsibility and honour of working for Real Madrid. I really like this concept.”
Although he has been in charge of the team since June, he was only formally presented today, behind closed doors and without supporters, family members or the media.
The remaining Real Madrid signings will now have their presentations in the same format. They will take place privately, without media coverage, although the players may be accompanied by their families.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
