Javier Saviola has thanked the Malaga fans following his goalscoring debut in the 3-1 win over Levante.
The Argentine international was signed from Benfica on transfer deadline day and says the ovation he received when substituted late in the second-half at La Rosaleda reminded him of his time at River Plate.
Saviola’s first-half strike set Los Blanquiazules on their way to victory over the Valencia-based side and his assist for Joaquin Sanchez’s goal after the break had the fans drooling.
“They told me that the Malaga fans always get behind the team and I hope I can continue to make them happy and will always give my best for them.
“They really responded to me and I’ve not felt an ovation like it since I was at River Plate.
“I’ve not felt something so beautiful, so close, so deep, and it reminded me of my time at River,” Saviola told a Press conference.
The former Barcelona, Real Madrid and Benfica man said he was pleased with his debut and the fact that the win carried Malaga to provisionally top La Liga.
“I’m happy with how things went and because we won against a tough opponent.
“A lot of people in Argentina are glad of my return [to La Liga] and I must enjoy moments like this with my family and friends as things are not always this good.
“However, we need to take things slowly and not get carried away because it will take time for me to get to know my new teammates as I’ve just arrived.
“I must give thanks to [Malaga boss] Pellegrini, my teammates, and everyone else for the warmth they have shown me since I came here.
“We have a Champions League game against Zenit on Tuesday, which will be difficult as they all are in that competition, and they have signed some world-class players.
“Even so, it’s going to be a special occasion,” he added.
