In Barcelona, during a golf tournament that gathered former players from both Barcelona and Real Madrid, the former Real Madrid president shared his reflections on the ongoing Negreira case. He noted that Real Madrid chose to participate in the case following guidance from their legal team. Participation, he explained, is not an accusation but a step to understand the situation and seek accountability if harm eventually arises.
Speaking on the matter, he cautioned against drawing hasty conclusions. He argued that parallel judicial processes are not helpful, having learned from experience that they often generate more confusion than clarity. Opinions and guesses, he said, belong outside the conversation because they complicate what is already a delicate matter. He urged patience, suggesting that it is wiser to wait for genuine facts before commenting further.
Speculation is not productive
Further emphasizing his position, he asserted that speculating about the case serves little purpose. The focus should remain on the legal process and what can be demonstrated under the law. He recalled that the presumption of innocence is a fundamental standard, citing a notable example where a former club president faced imprisonment for two years before eventual acquittal, underscoring that initial judgments can be reversed in the end.
Regarding remarks attributed to a former referee about alleged pressure from Florentino Pérez, he stated that such claims are unlikely to reflect reality. He described Pérez as a prudent, business-minded leader who has steered the club with measured, steady direction. The perception of firm, responsible leadership remains essential, especially in times of controversy when measured communication matters more than dramatic assertions.
Overall, the message conveyed was one of restraint. The figures involved in football leadership are expected to handle sensitive information with care and to let the legal process run its course. The emphasis is on clarity, accountability, and a cautious approach to any public statements while the facts unfold.