The Real Madrid president emphasized the importance of the tournament and expressed his support for the new international format. He also showed confidence in the beginning of Xabi Alonso tenure as head coach of the team.

Ahead of Real Madrid debut against Al Hilal in the Club World Cup, Florentino Pérez spoke to DAZN, sharing his excitement for the new era ushered in by this international competition.

An Optimistic View of the New Format

The Madrid president highlighted the tournament significance, organized by FIFA, calling it a step forward for global football:

“This competition means a lot. I want to thank FIFA and DAZN for making it possible for the best clubs in the world to compete in such a beautiful tournament. It’s the first Club World Cup under this format, and I’m convinced it will be a success. We’re all here full of excitement,” said Pérez.

Free Football: A Dream Realized

One of the key points Perez emphasized was the democratization of football access, made possible by technological advancements:

“We’ve finally achieved something we’ve been fighting for a long time. Football is the most global sport in the world, and now technology allows us to hold such a beautiful and free competition. Knowing that children all over the world can watch Real Madrid fills us with joy. Football is about to change, thanks to the union of major clubs and technology.”

Perez also acknowledged his own key role in this transformation:

“I’ve been one of the main advocates for making this a reality. Football is going to change in this new era.”

A Subtle Jab at Javier Tebas

His remarks were seen as a subtle response to recent comments from LaLiga president Javier Tebas, who strongly criticized the tournament:

“My goal is to eliminate it, to put an end to the Club World Cup,”  Tebas stated during a lecture at ESADE Business School in Madrid.

Xabi Alonso First Big Challenge

Florentino also took the opportunity to express his support for the new project led by Xabi Alonso, who is facing his first major challenge as head coach of the first team:

“As with every start of a new season, we’re prepared to face it. We have a new coach, new players, and a very attractive new competition one that many people have worked hard for over a long time.”