White Week at the Universidad Europea Real Madrid Graduate School commenced with notable figures from Real Madrid inaugurating the event. This occasion is designed to inspire and educate students about the core values and professional insights from one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs.
Keynote Address by Thibaut Courtois
Thibaut Courtois, the esteemed goalkeeper of Real Madrid, delivered a compelling keynote address, sharing personal anecdotes and professional advice. Courtois emphasized the importance of resilience and a positive mindset, particularly reflecting on his recovery from a cruciate ligament injury. He recounted the emotional and physical challenges he faced, stressing the significance of perseverance and self-belief in overcoming adversity. “In August, I cried because the worst thing that can happen to you in football is the cruciate. When I got home I said I was going to work hard and come back strong,” Courtois shared, highlighting his determination to return to peak performance.
Lessons from Injuries
Courtois underscored the importance of maintaining a positive attitude during tough times. His experience with a severe injury taught him to focus on his recovery with unwavering determination. “Above all, you have to be positive,” he stated, illustrating how a constructive mindset helped him defy expectations and return stronger.
Real Madrid’s Global Impact
The goalkeeper also reflected on Real Madrid’s unparalleled influence in the football world. “From the outside you always see the grandeur, but until you’re inside you don’t realize the impact Real Madrid has on world football,” Courtois noted. He expressed his admiration for the club’s consistent pursuit of excellence, particularly in their annual quest for the Champions League.
Memorable Moments
Courtois shared some of his career highlights, notably his performance against Galatasaray and the Champions League final victory against Liverpool. These moments were pivotal in boosting his confidence and cementing his legacy. “Winning that final with so many saves and being voted man of the match is one of the best moments of my life in football,” he reminisced, illustrating the pinnacle of his achievements.
Insights from Chus Mateo
Chus Mateo, a prominent figure in Real Madrid’s coaching staff, opened the 2024 White Week with insights on leadership and excellence. He emphasized the rigorous demands of managing a club like Real Madrid and the invaluable lessons learned from such an environment. Mateo highlighted the importance of teamwork and the club’s ethos of relentless pursuit until the very end.
Real Madrid Values
Mateo spoke passionately about the unique spirit that pervades Real Madrid, a spirit that demands persistence and excellence. “When you come to this club you realize how huge it is. There are things you don’t believe until you’re here, like not giving up until the end,” he said. He attributed Real Madrid’s success to this unwavering commitment and the blend of experienced and young talents within the team.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Drawing from his own experiences, Mateo advised students to embrace both success and failure as learning opportunities. “Failure also makes you grow because I’ve also lost, and ultimately that shapes you,” he shared. Mateo encouraged students to stay committed to their goals without forcing outcomes, emphasizing the importance of dedication and readiness to seize opportunities when they arise.
Contributions from Other Speakers
The event also featured insights from Francisco Panadero, the Director of Infrastructures and Asset Development at Real Madrid. Panadero discussed the strategic importance of asset development and its role in adding value to the club. Additionally, Pilar Jericó, the president of BeUp and a visiting professor from Georgetown, addressed the students on essential leadership qualities.
Asset Development
Francisco Panadero elaborated on the significance of infrastructure and asset management in maintaining Real Madrid’s elite status. He highlighted the strategic initiatives undertaken by the club to enhance their facilities and resources, ensuring they remain at the forefront of football excellence.
Leadership Insights
Pilar Jericó provided a comprehensive talk on leadership, drawing from her extensive experience and research. She emphasized the importance of adaptive leadership and emotional intelligence in navigating the complexities of modern professional environments. Her session aimed to equip students with the skills needed to lead effectively in their future careers.
Conclusion
The first day of White Week at the Universidad Europea Real Madrid Graduate School was a resounding success, offering students a unique blend of inspiration and practical advice from some of the leading figures in football. The event underscored the values of resilience, teamwork, and continuous improvement that define Real Madrid. By sharing their personal journeys and professional wisdom, Courtois, Mateo, and other speakers provided invaluable insights to the next generation of leaders and professionals.