River Plate president responds to Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez | OneFootball

Real Madrid finally presented new signing Franco Mastantuono on Thursday, on the day of his 18th birthday, nearly two months after signing him from River Plate.

The Merengues shelled out a big sum on the teenage sensation, with the fee rising up to €63 million, including add-ons and taxes – a record sale for an Argentine club.

During Mastantuono’s presentation on Thursday, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez gave a speech, during which he highlighted the good relationship between themselves and River Plate.

“I want to give special mention to River Plate, a legendary, century-old club, one of the most successful in Argentina and the Americas,” said Florentino Perez.

“We all feel profound admiration and also enormous affection for the club where many Real Madrid legends were forged, among them our always beloved and remembered Alfredo Di Stefano, who was honorary president of Real Madrid,” he added.

River Plate President responds

A while after Perez’s speech, River Plate president Jorge Brito replied to the Real Madrid chief’s words with a touching message on social media.

“Many thanks for your words, Florentino. Real Madrid is a club with which we share not only a sporting history but also a heartfelt relationship, built on mutual respect, greatness, and values that transcend generations,” he wrote.

“The history between River and Real Madrid is full of unforgettable moments, such as that first encounter in Chamartín in 1951, also our presence at the tribute to Paco Gento in 1965, and of course, the eternal legacy of Alfredo Di Stéfano, an immortal symbol of both clubs,” Brito continued.

“Alfredo was formed at River and became a legend, he is that bridge of glory and admiration that unites River Plate with Real Madrid. That bond has been renewed many times with great players from our youth academies who also shone at the Bernabeu.”

Concluding, he wrote: “For River, it is a pride to see that our institutions walk together through passion, good football, prestige, and a history that honors the best of this sport.”

Brito enjoys a strong relationship with Florentino Perez, whom he visited at the Bernabeu in the past, where he presented him with a River Plate shirt.