"The best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid is leaving; he’s leaving because he wants to. He received an offer from Porto and asked us to study it", said Florentino Pérez, in today’s event which the goalkeeper himself attended too.
"Iker has had two difficult years with plenty of pressure and I understand his decision although I would have preferred from him to end his career here", he added. "Certain supporters have not behaved well and I hope that is never repeated", he furthered. He also talked about a tribute match for Iker that could be played in Madrid on August 12, with FC Porto as the potential rival for the ‘Trofeo Santiago Bernabéu’, although he could not confirm this date.
The club president then answered questions for the assembled media:
Criticisms: "Certain people take advantage of situations like this but it’s something that I’m well used to since 2000".
A change in 24 hours: "The deal took much longer than anticipated with lawyers and accountants being heavily involved... I would have liked an event with the players present. Later, Iker held a press conference himself. I had this type of sendoff in mind and that’s why I invited him to attend and he answered positively. Despite what they say, our relationship is good and his manner of handling himself has been exemplary".
The fans: "There is something wrong when supporters don’t adore their idols. I don’t like this and I’ll always say this. I’ve always criticized the small group who behave in this manner. All our players form a part of this club".
The image of Madrid has been tarnished: "There are those who will use anything against me. Casillas forms a key part of the 113 years of this club. There are those who don’t like me and will use anything to criticize me. Iker will be forever in the hearts of all Madrid fans".
He’s leaving because he wants to: "We understand his sporting career and he’s entitled to pursue this away from this club. The same situation arose with Raúl".
Signing a new goalkeeper: "It will be impossible to substitute him and our only thoughts are about saying goodbye to Iker. We have to wait and see who comes in. De Gea belongs to a club who we are friendly with. There, however won’t be another player who arrives at the club at nine years of age and leaves 25 years later. He will always be a legend for us".
Offers: "He only made us aware of the bid from Porto and I imagine that it’s the best for him. The city is close and they are a historic club...".
Insufficient defense from the club: "Iker has had to endure plenty and I’ve always stood by our players. Defending Bale? It’s very wrong of a media outlet to tell things that don’t occur. I’ve already stated that Iker was subject to an unacceptable level of pressure. I hope this serves as a lesson and never happens again".