Isco has been presented as a Real Madrid player, is relishing the challenge of competition for places and has played down rumoured sympathies to Barcelona.
The attacking midfielder was confirmed last week as having agreed to transfer across to the Santiago Bernabeu from Malaga, for a fee believed to be in the region of €30m.
Today saw his presentation to media and fans, where he took the opportunity to express his happiness at his choice. Manchester City were also in the running for his signature.
“First, I want to say thank you for the efforts of the President, the warmth of the people from the first moment and the efforts of my family, because I am here,” Isco reflected to reporters.
“There is nothing greater than being in Madrid, it’s awesome. I hope that with my age I can contribute a lot here, to bring enjoyment and to win many titles.
“I will learn from great players who have done great things with Madrid.
“Competition for places? It is true that I had offers from other teams in Europe, but it is impossible to say no to Madrid and I have confidence that I will win a place in the team.
“Minutes are not given away here. Hopefully I can get a place in the team.
“Winning a place at Real Madrid is difficult, but if I did not see myself doing so then I would not have come here.
“I had very few doubts. Pellegrini wanted me [at Manchester City] but when I saw that Madrid were serious I did not think twice.
“Pellegrini is very fond of this club and just said good things. I told him that I could not say no to Madrid.”
The 21-year-old faced questions on rumours that he has an affinity for Barcelona, whilst his labrador is named Messi.
“I am now a madridista and whilst I am here I am going to give everything for this shirt. Nobody is going to question my commitment to Madrid.
“I also had another dog called Figo. It isn’t important. Would I change my dog’s name to Ronaldo? No, because he would ignore me.”
Isco has taken the No 23 shirt, made famous in recent years by David Beckham.
“We all know that Beckham is a great player and it so happens that 10 years on from him being presented, I am, with the same number.
“I like the 23 and I have taken it as it is the date of my brother’s birthday.”
