Real Madrid president Perez calls for elections

Florentino Perez has been in charge at Real Madrid since June 2009 [Getty Images] Real Madrid president Florentino Perez staged a tense press conference in which he argued with journalists and called for elections following a trophyless season. Perez insisted he will stand again and spoke of an "organised campaign" against his leadership, telling his opponents not to "move in the shadows" and to instead contest the election. His announcement comes after Barcelona defeated Real Madrid in the Clasico at Camp Nou on Sunday to claim back-to-back La Liga titles with three games to spare.

"I'm here to say I'm not going anywhere and I'm here to stand for election," the 79-year-old told the gathered press. "If someone does want to stand for election, this is your opportunity. But don't move in the shadows with publications, news outlets.

"And I'm not in bed, unwell. I have to come out and sit here because as Real Madrid president, I can't allow journalists to do what they do. " Perez has been office since June 2009, having previously been president between 2000 and 2006, and the perception that he is now too tired to fulfil his role has been the subject of anonymous briefing in Spanish press.

He reacted furiously to the suggestion at the press conference in the Spanish capital, demanding those questioning him to out themselves. "I work hard. I'm up early and I'm the last to go to bed.