‘Only Atleti could excite me’

Fernando Torres has admitted that Atletico Madrid were the only club who could help him rediscover his ‘excitement’ in football.

The striker returned to the Vicente Calderon in an 18-month loan deal last week, and he maintained that he only had eyes for the Spanish champions after indifferent spells with Chelsea and Milan.

“I didn’t have a particular moment to return in mind. It’s been a process in which I needed something that would excite me and I could only get it here,” the 30-year-old said at his official presentation yesterday.

“Atletico needed a boost in attack and it’s happened thanks to God. I mulled over whether [a return] would be feasible, but we all pulled in the same direction.

“Once terms were agreed between the clubs, it wasn’t difficult. I've been dreaming that this could be a reality.

“Everything still seems a little surreal. I need to jump into the Vicente Calderon wearing the Atleti jersey. That day will be as special, as today is.

“You can see the response of the fans today. Many of them waited for me and love the club.

“The crowd will never be a problem for the team. They help the team to earn points, more so than any other fans in Spain.

“When I last qualified for the Champions League [with Atleti], they collaborated. Wednesday will surely be a stunning derby.

“I can only be thankful. Atletico is above everything.”

Tags Atletico Fernando Torres Torres Transfers
La Liga - Club News