Jose Mourinho was presented as Real Madrid’s new head coach, but behind closed doors.
In a unique first for president Florentino Perez, his 17th coaching hire didn’t involved a public unveiling.
Instead, Madrid held a private event with Mourinho and his family and uploaded the ceremony on their media channels.
The decision comes after Perez’s fallout with the media when he held an hour long press conference announcing a new election and spent most of it attacking journalists.
Madrid’s five new signings will also get the same private treatment as Mourinho which is again a first under Perez.
Mourinho gets special gifts from Perez
What remains to be seen is if they will get the same gifts as Mourinho.
Having been presented with the club’s new shirt with his name, Mourinho also received a miniature figurine of the Bernabeu and a new watch.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the event, Mourinho said: “The first time I arrived at Real Madrid, it was the pinnacle of professional success, but now there’s also, in addition to that, the emotional and personal aspect, so I believe this stage is more special than the first.
“I feel this is a mission, and it goes beyond words. I’m here to help everyone improve and to create a culture of work, responsibility, and ambition.
“I also have the desire to instil the responsibility and honour of working for Real Madrid.
“The important thing is to work for Real Madrid, and I want it to be that way for everyone at Valdebebas. What I can say to the fans is that I’m one of you, I always have been since I left.”
Real Madrid’s presentations will now continue in the same manner for the rest of the week.
Yan Diomande, Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate and Carlos Espi will all get their own private events.
The procedure sadly robs fans of a moment of getting to know their new signings in an authentic environment, with Trent Alexander-Arnold winning favour last summer when he spoke Spanish at his unveiling.
It also means the many members who help fund the club and that voted for Perez miss a day out at the stadium.
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