George Steinbrenner left Yankee Stadium with a smile on his face yesterday.

The Yankees owner, decked on in his trademark navy blue blazer and white turtleneck, exited the Stadium after watching his team’s come-from-behind 9-7 victory over the Royals expressing his pleasure in this year’s squad.

“[I’m] very pleased,” Steinbrenner said as he walked to a waiting car.

The 75-year-old Steinbrenner arrived at the Stadium two hours before the first pitch yesterday and said, “We’re ready,” as he walked in.

The Boss watched as his team struggled through the middle innings, allowing the Royals to take a 7-4 lead. Despite the team’s trouble with the bottom-feeding Royals, Steinbrenner said he’s not concerned about the Yankees.

“The Royals are a good team,” he said. “They’ve got a good mixture. They’ve got enough veteran players and they got some young players. Every team is going to be tough.”

The Yankees lost four of their first six games, something that might have irritated Steinbrenner in the past. So far, though, the owner has kept his cool publicly and praised his $198 million team.

Yesterday, the Yankees stumbled before rallying for the home-opener victory. Derek Jeter, whom Steinbrenner made captain, came through with an eight-inning home run to put the Bombers on top.

“He’s super,” Steinbrenner repeated twice on his walk to the car.

Rumors surrounding Steinbrenner’s health have circulated in recent years, but The Boss seemed to enjoy the pomp and circumstance of yesterday’s Opening Day as much as ever.

“They never get old,” Steinbrenner said.

A reporter then asked if he’ll be back next year.

“I hope so,” he said.