Last days of the market
“It’s easier than you think. An offer arrived from West Bromwich, with some pretty good figures, which could have been higher. So, during the conversation with the Club, they believed the offer should have been more, and I agree. If one day I have to leave, it’ll be leaving good feelings behind and nothing else. I removed myself from the situation, the Club took over and now it’s all finished. I stayed away from it all. I made myself clear, if there was no agreement, I would go hand in hand with the Club, and that’s how it was throughout.”
Satisfied and relaxed
“I’m absolutely delighted, that I want to make clear. I’m the happiest man in the world. I feel very valued, which is something to be grateful for. The contract renewal or increase doesn’t bother me, I’m happy, and whatever happens, happens. I feel valued by him (Sheikh Al Thani), he didn’t want me to leave under any circumstances. He wanted me here and for us both to make the decision. I was focusing on getting on with routine and working hard in training.”
Loved and important
“I’ve been here six years. There are some people that think that isn’t a good thing, but I don’t think you could doubt me and what I’ve done for this shield. Those who doubt me don’t know me well enough. I feel important and loved by the fans, I’m one of the team captains and feel very loved by the Club and everyone here. I’m a person that always speaks the truth, and I’ve never cheated them. I’m a sincere person. My relationship with the owner is perfect. I had a meeting to hold a conversation, and that was all. Everything has been normal and consensual, which is why I believe our relationship is perfect.”
Project and investment
“The Club has been improving, and this year made a great investment, with an exciting project including some young players. It’s important that the Club’s ambitions are high, with high expectations. There’s a new squad and new coach, and we’re working towards achieving our objectives step by step.”
Negotiation, dressing room and family
“I was in a period of negotiation between clubs, and nothing more. Until an offer was on the table and the Club was in agreement, there was nothing to do. I would never leave this Club for the wrong reasons, or at least I’d try not to. My teammates are happy, it seemed as though we weren’t going to see each other, but I said to them that we would as nothing had happened. My family was more nervous than me by what they saw every day. I felt the same as always with my teammates, who I enjoy the day to day with. They didn’t see me being serious or acting differently at any time, which I think is a good thing. Nobody can say I said anything bad about the Club.”
