Enrique Riquelme talks Mourinho, transfer plans, Valverde-Tchouameni feud, Negreira case | OneFootball

While much of Enrique Riquelme’s recent interview focused on finances, governance and the future ownership of Real Madrid, the presidential candidate also shared his views on several sporting matters currently surrounding the club.

From the managerial position to transfer targets and even dressing-room incidents, Riquelme laid out the vision he would pursue if he were to become Real Madrid president. 

His comments offered a clearer idea of how he believes the club should be run on the football side and what changes he would like to implement.

Riquelme discusses Mourinho and transfer plans

The businessman was particularly outspoken when discussing the profile of a manager he believes Real Madrid should have moving forward, while also teasing a major transfer announcement that could become a key part of his election campaign.

While acknowledging the qualities of Jose Mourinho, Riquelme suggested that the Portuguese coach does not fit the direction he would like the club to take.

“I’ve made that clear. There are players who, if I were president, would play for Real Madrid. Players who are at other clubs, whom we must respect. 

“On the sporting side, Mourinho is a great manager, but at the moment he isn’t the type of manager I believe Real Madrid needs. 

Riquelme is not a Mourinho fan. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“The club’s DNA and identity must return. A project that delivers results in the very short term, without experimenting in the medium and long term.”

Riquelme was also asked about reports linking his campaign to a potential marquee signing if he were elected. 

While refusing to reveal specific details immediately, he hinted that supporters would soon learn more.

“This week we’re going to reveal practically all the names. There might be one name we don’t reveal, but that specific name will be announced. 

“We said we’d reveal that name tomorrow, Wednesday, and I hope it will excite Madrid fans and Real Madrid members.”

Dressing room tension

The presidential candidate was also questioned about the tensions within the dressing room, including a disagreement involving Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde.

Riquelme has shared is opinion on the dressing room feud. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

When discussing how he would handle such situations, Riquelme responded, “I think it’s a question of hierarchy and professionalism. 

“If you put the right people in place, appoint a sporting director, establish clear lines of responsibility, professionalism and hierarchy, that sort of thing shouldn’t happen.”

On the Negreira case

Lastly, Riquelme also touched on one of the most sensitive subjects in Spanish football: the Negreira case involving Barcelona.

Sharing his view on the matter, he said, “The fact is, there have clearly been payments made to Negreira by the referees, which have actually favoured Barcelona and disadvantaged Real Madrid.

“The thing is, Barcelona as a club was on its knees and Florentino Pérez called for a strong Barça and helped them out. And now they have won two La Liga titles. 

“I want a strong Real Madrid. I wouldn’t have helped Barcelona; I would have gone all out on the Negreira issue. These are things that worry me as a Real Madrid fan and member,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo