Florentino Perez delivers powerful message to Real Madrid players – ‘You must be a role model’ | OneFootball

The Christmas period at Real Madrid is traditionally a moment of reflection, unity, and responsibility, and this year was no different. 

During the joint Christmas lunch attended by both the football and basketball squads, club president Florentino Perez took the opportunity to personally address the players.

Before delving into values and expectations, Perez began on a personal note, acknowledging the importance of family and togetherness at this time of year. 

Speaking directly to those present, he was quoted by MARCA as saying,

“I would like to wish you all a happy holiday season with your families and loved ones.”

From there, the president shifted the focus to what Real Madrid represents. He reminded the squads that success has never come by chance and that the club’s history has been built on deeply rooted principles. 

Setting the context of responsibility that comes with wearing the white shirt, Perez underlined the foundations of Madrid’s identity.

“I always say that we must keep in mind the values that have built the history and legend of Real Madrid. 

“Everything we have achieved in our 123-year history has been thanks to what this crest and this shirt represent: hard work, sacrifice, commitment, the desire to excel, camaraderie, respect, humility, and solidarity. 

“I always say that being part of Real Madrid is a great privilege, but at the same time it is a great responsibility.”

Message to the players

The president then addressed the wider impact the players have beyond results and trophies.

He reminded them that their actions resonate far beyond the stadium, especially among younger fans who look up to them. 

Perez sent a strong message to his players. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

“You touch the hearts of millions of people and you must be a role model and an example for those who follow you around the world, especially the children for whom you are idols. 

“Always remember that you represent Real Madrid on and off the field.”

Perez also took time to put recent success into perspective. 

While acknowledging an extraordinary era filled with trophies, he made it clear that past glory cannot lead to complacency.

“We have experienced one of the most brilliant periods in our history, with 58 titles in the last 15 years, 30 in football and 28 in basketball. 

“But at Real Madrid, we cannot become complacent, and every year we are obliged to work until the very end to continue feeding this universal feeling that is Madridismo.”

Highlighting the club’s global reach, Perez pointed to the sheer scale of Real Madrid’s following and the responsibility that comes with it.

“Here, we have to fight until the end, and that is what I ask of you: that with this shirt, no one gives up until the last moment of every game.”

Faith in the squads was another key theme. Perez expressed his confidence in the unity and commitment of the group as they face future challenges.

“We have faith in your effort and your talent, and we are sure that by sticking together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead. 

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your commitment and your madridismo, as well as your solidarity,” he stated.