Premier League: Former Real Madrid Defender Explains Why He Left Zidane For Mourinho’s Spurs

Sergio Reguilon revealed Thursday that Jose Mourinho played an "important" role in his decision to leave Real Madrid and join Tottenham Hotspur at the 2020 summer transfer window.

While many clubs wanted to sign Reguilon from Real Madrid, Mourinho’s presence at Spurs helped the North London club rope in the left-back, the 23-year-old Spaniard told Sky Sports in an exclusive conversation, which was his first interview since his $37 million-arrival to the Premier League from Santiago Bernabeu this summer.

"He is a world-class manager and he was very important in my decision to come. There was a broad market but as soon as I heard of Tottenham's interest, it was simple. It was a big deal to leave my country, my league, and my family, but it has worked out well. Since I arrived here, the truth is the club has surprised me in a very good way. The training facilities, my team-mates, everything. The stadium is insane. I have really enjoyed it so far," Reguilon told Sky Sports.

Reguilon made his first-team debut with Real Madrid in 2018-19 before he was loaned off to Seville the following season. Even though Reguilon made only 22 senior appearances for Zinedine Zidane’s side, the left-back said he has a lot to thank the La Liga champions for.

"Real Madrid is the club where I was made, the club where I grew up, and I would be nothing without them. Leaving was a difficult step to take but it's one you have to take at one point or another and, for me, I think it was the right time. It's tough to leave your family and everything, but this league, for me, is the best in the world and I am very happy here. Now I just want to focus on trying to help this club win trophies," added Reguilon in the Sky Sports interview.

Reguilon, who signed a five-year contract with Mourinho’s side, made his Spurs debut during a League Cup fixture in September. The 23-year-old defender has so far made four competitive appearances for Spurs.

With two wins, two draws, and a loss, Mourinho-managed Spurs are currently placed seventh in the league table. The North London club will next face Burnley in the Premier League Monday.