Florentino Perez: 'Iker Casillas made decision to leave'

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has insisted that it was Iker Casillas's decision to leave the club this summer.

The 34-year-old joined FC Porto in the summer and many believed that the Spanish goalkeeper was forced out of the club by the Los Blancos board.

However, speaking at the club's general assembly, Perez denied the claims and told those present that it was Casillas's choice to exit the Santiago Bernabeu.

Perez said: "Iker alone made the decision to leave following an offer from Porto. He urged us to clear the way for him to accept it and we did just that, among other things because he deserved it.

"Iker is the best goalkeeper in Real Madrid and Spanish football history. Like I said at his farewell ceremony, his example lives on at the club."

Casillas has made five appearances for Porto so far this season, conceding four goals in all competitions.