Ramon Mendoza's 10 best anecdotes from his time as Real Madrid president

Ramon Mendoza was an incredibly popular figure during his time as Real Madrid president from 1985 to 1995.

He was charismatic, always had a sharp tongue and often spoke to journalists about football at his home.

These are some of his best stories and anecdotes.

Fran

One of Mendoza's most daring deals as Real Madrid president was when he tried to sign Fran from Deportivo La Coruna.

While he was at MARCA's offices, he decided to change his mind on the transfer after agreeing a fee.

Johan Cruyff

For a charity match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Mendoza flew from Madrid to Barcelona with Blaugrana boss Johan Cruyff. Emilio Butragueno was also on the plane.

Transport

"Being Real Madrid president is more important than being a minister," Mendoza famously said.

He would travel everywhere with his chauffeur, Alfonso, and sit in the passenger's seat. At weekends, he would drive himself and also sail.

Money

Mendoza wasn't one to make frequent trips to the bank. He'd often keep his money in cash at home and it wasn't strange to see him carrying 80,000 pesetas in his wallet.

Mercedes

In order to compete financially with Barcelona, Real Madrid shelled out 100 million pesetas each year under Mendoza to pay for a Mercedes for each of their players as a reward for getting through three rounds of the European Cup.

The press

One of Mendoza's closest friends was businessman Jesus de Polanco, who included the Real Madrid president on the board of his Prisa Group as a reward of Mendoza's work in getting Polanco a majority share in the media group.

Jose Luis Caminero

Caminero had come through the Real Madrid academy before moving on to play for Real Valladolid.

Mendoza wanted to re-sign him but, after the player had appeared in MARCA with a Real Madrid shirt on, the president, angered, cancelled the move.

Clothes

Mendoza was always known for his impeccable style.

He kept in close contact with fashion designer Giorgio Armani and even held the concession for some of the Italian brand's shops in Spain.

Barajas Airport

When he couldn't get to games, Mendoza often liked to welcome the team back at the airport.

When he went to Madrid's Barajas Airport to greet the players after a win over Barcelona, he mixed with the fans who were congregating there as they sang and chanted.

Tobacco

Mendoza was often seen smoking and would offer cigarettes to journalists and friends.