New Real Madrid signing Brahim Diaz says he only ever wanted to join the Spanish side after hearing of their interest and has no regrets about walking away from Manchester City.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder was out of contract at the end of the season, but completed a €17million (£15.2m) move from City to Madrid on Sunday and was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday.
“It’s the most important day of my life,” he said in a short speech. “I am here at the club I dreamed of playing for since I was a child and there is no better present for King’s Day.
“When I decided to leave City, I contemplated three options: the first option was to play for Madrid, the second was to play for Madrid and the third to play for Madrid. I didn’t want to go anywhere else.”
After that, he went out on to the pitch at the Bernabeu for the usual ‘keepie-uppie’ session and looked composed in front of the fans before addressing the media in the press room inside the stadium alongside club legend Emilio Butragueno.
“When they told me to come to Madrid, I didn’t think twice,” he said. “I’m very grateful to City because they valued me, but I’m here at Madrid now and I want to become a great for Madrid. I am excited to get started.”
And he added: “I’m hungry. I’m a player with a lot of hunger. My opportunities will come by working hard and giving my all. I want to win titles here.”
Brahim could make his debut for Real on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey against Leganes at the Bernabeu.
“I’m ready,” he said. “I can’t wait to get started. That’s why I came here.”
Finally, he was asked about Madrid’s current situation after Sunday’s loss in LaLiga saw Los Blancos fall 10 points behind Barcelona in the table and handled the question with the same skill he has shown on the pitch.
“Real Madrid’s situation is that they have won three Champions Leagues in a row and four in the past five seasons,” he said.
Brahim will wear the number 21 shirt for Real.
