You knew that Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez could not let Jose Mourinho’s surrender of its La Liga title go unchallenged. So no surprise to hear Perez respond on Monday at a charity event saying:
“One of Madrid’s sporting principles is to never give up, no matter how difficult the challenge. One should never give up, not in sport or in life” said Perez.
The Real Madrid President was responding to comments from coach Jose Mourinho after seeing his side drop another two points on Saturday when they drew 2-2 with Espanyol/
Speaking before Barcelona’s win over Atletico that night, Mourinho told reporters:
“It’s practically impossible. It’s 10 points which could become 13. 13 points in December are a lot. We had eight last year and despite drawing two matches we maintained that distance.”
I understand why Perez had to make that statement. But Mourinho is right. They are not going to catch Barcelona. Not when Real Madrid has already dropped more points in this La Liga campaign, fifteen, than in the whole of the last season (14).
Mourinho’s side has drawn twice at home: against Valencia (1-1) and Espanyol (2-2), and lost three times away from the Bernabéu;Getafe (2-1), Sevilla (1-0) and Betis (1-0). In addition, they also drew 2-2 at the the Camp Nou.
But being out of the title race so early could play into Real Madrid’s hands as they are pretty much guaranteed to finish in the top three and get an automatic Champions League place for next season. That means that Mourinho and his players can put 100% of their effort into winning the clubs 10th Champions League/European Cup trophy.
