Real Madrid's Perez rejects exit talk, calls election

MADRID, May 12 : Real Madrid President Florentino Perez said on Tuesday he will not step down and has called a board election after a turbulent season that see the storied LaLiga club go without silverware.

The 79-year-old, long-serving Real boss had unexpectedly called a press conference, prompting media speculation that Jose Mourinho could be close to a return as coach or that Perez himself might step aside. 

"I am not going to resign," Perez said however.

"I'm sorry to have to tell you this, because I've heard rumours that I'm going to resign," he added, saying the process had begun for a board election with current members standing.

"I invite anyone who wishes to do so. I will be standing to defend the interests of Real Madrid's members."

His media appearance came two days after arch-rivals Barcelona sealed the league title with three games to spare thanks to a 2-0 victory over Real at Camp Nou, capping the Madrid side's miserable season on and off the pitch.

Perez appeared animated and argued with journalists, accusing them of "conspiring" to create a narrative of chaos while also railing against ticket-scalpers, fan ultras, LaLiga, referees and groups he said were trying to take over the club.

In a season of managerial instability, Xabi Alonso was dismissed after seven months in charge while his successor Alvaro Arbeloa was unable to halt the slide.

Real's struggles extended to Europe where they exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage after defeat by Bayern Munich.

Off-field tensions compounded Real's difficulties, with captain Federico Valverde hospitalised after an altercation this month with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni.

NO COMMENT ON MOURINHO RUMOURS

When asked about speculation linking Mourinho - who