Real Madrid have released an official statement denying rumours that club president Florentino Perez is considering stepping down from his role in the near future. However, despite that, there are still some speculating over who his successor could be when he does eventually decide to leave his role.
One name has been brought up that could turn some heads around the world. That is none other than Tennis legend and well-known Real Madrid supporter, Rafael Nadal.
This is not the first time that that idea has been floated. And he has even commented on the matter in the past.
As reported by Express, Nadal told El Mundo in 2017:
"“If you ask me if I would like it, of course I would, why not? But there is more to it.“I think it will not be. We are very good as we are. We have a great president right now, and I don’t think Real Madrid needs me.“But we never know what can happen in the future. It is not something I can raise today.”"
Nadal’s past comments about becoming Real Madrid president
Could Nadal be shifting his focus from tennis to football in the future, when he puts the racquet down? The 22-time Grand Slam champion is from Mallorca but is a proud Real Madrid fan, often attending their home matches.
The Spanish legend is not expected to continue playing tennis for much longer. Nadal has missed most of this season due to injury and could very possibly retire from the game after the 2024 season.
Nadal would certainly be a pick out of left field to be the next Real Madrid president. The Spaniard has no history of holding a similar position anywhere. But then, he would be an eye-catching name to bring in for sure and there is no question about his passion for the club either.
It is too early to think about this stuff though. Perez is the president for the time being and is expected to continue in that role for the foreseeable future. The focus must be on the 2023/24 campaign, which has started in terrible fashion with Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao picking up potentially season-ending injuries already.
Kepa has been brought in on loan as Courtois’ replacement. Will the club sign someone to take Militao’s place?