Demichelis: "I pledge one hundred percent to the club"
The Argentine central defender, who arrived free from Málaga, spoke very excitedly of his arrival at Atlético in the VIP room of Vicente Calderón. Among those present were the club president, Enrique Cerezo and sporting director, Jose Luís Pérez Caminero. After his presentation, the player tried on the new kit he’ll be wearing this 2013-14 season.
Martín Demichelis was presented officially as an Atlético de Madrid player in an act that took place in the Vicente Calderón stadium. The Argentine was accompanied by Enrique Cerezo, club president and Jose Luís Pérez Caminero, sports director.
Martín Demichelis said he felt "happy to be at such an important club and an ambitious on like Atletico, that will compete in Liga, Copa and especially Champions. I also have to say that we have coach who shows day to day his passion for winning, so I hope be at the level and I commit one hundred per hundred to the club, the group and to work hard for future success".
The Argentine has begun to realize the requirements as an Atleti player: "I’ve trained one days and I've had two workouts. The preparation is essential at this stage of the season".
"It was a difficult decision after ten years in Europe. I had a moral decision about River and another emotional one with Málaga where I’ve lived two and half very intense years. In the end, I decided on my career and I’ve come to a great team like Atlético ", explained Demichelis when asked why he accepted a proposal as ambitious like Atletico, but especially stressed playing in the Champions League: "For any player it’s always special to play the Champions League. I am convinced that we can have a great year in Europe."
The Argentine central spoke of his role in the team trained by Diego Pablo Simeone: "'I’m one of the older and more experienced players and I’ll try to contribute and give all that I have. This is a winning group and thinking about winning moves us to win more. I want to achieve in the club more of what has been achieved in recent years".
"I’ve not set any objective other than to have a very great season and no injuries. After that who knows what can happen. I have a lot of confidence. Godín and Miranda are solid defenders, they were part of the defence that conceded the least goals last season, but I’m going to compete with everything that I have for a spot in the team", he concluded.
Enrique Cerezo opened the act of presentation explaining that "Atlético de Madrid always seeks players of a high standard, experienced and capable of helping the youngsters. Martín Demichelis is a player that will bring a lot to our squad. He has always been a key piece in all of the squads he has played in. He is a player of character and leadership and we hope that he defends the colours with that that characterizes him and his Argentine".
"Its origins form a connection with our coach and his coaching staff, something that will make it even easier for him to fit in, contributing everything Atlético need from him", ensured the president before he wished him luck and welcome him to his ‘new home '.
