Florentino Perez: Thank you, Raul, for making Real Madrid great

Florentino Perez has hailed Raul as one of the greatest players in Real Madrid’s history after the striker hung up his boots at the weekend.

The 38-year-old called time on his incredible career in the most fitting way possible – lifting another title – the North America Soccer League Bowl with New York Cosmos. His side saw off Ottawa Fury in the final.

Raul spent 16 seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu and has made the most appearances in the club’s history. He was also the highest scorer, with 323 goals, until Ronaldo surpassd him last month. The legendary forward won six La Liga titles and three Champions League titles among many others in a glittering career.

In a statement published on the official club website, Perez had high words of praise for the ex-Spain attacker.

“Raúl is an essential figure when it comes to assessing Real Madrid’s most recent history. Raúl embodies the essential values and principles that are enshrined in the sacred code of Real Madrid. For every Real Madrid fan, Raúl was, is, and always will be, an example of honesty, work, the ability to resist defeat and someone that is passionate about football,” he wrote.

And he continued: “Today, wherever he may be, I am sure that our beloved president of honour Alfredo Di Stéfano will feel the pride that all of us who love Raúl feel. Raúl was one of Alfredo Di Stéfano’s great and worthy successors.

“Thank you Raúl, for having helped to make Real Madrid great with your dedication and talent.

“Dear Raúl, your example will be forever recognised at Real Madrid, where you know that the doors are always open to you because for years, you fuelled the legend of the Whites and because you too are a legend.”