Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez is enjoying being back in Spain, following his acrimonious departure last summer.
The Spanish international's €40m move from Athletic Bilbao to the German giants proved to be a long and drawn out saga, with the Basque club even accusing the player of breaking into their training ground to reclaim his belongings.
Now back in his homeland to take part in Bayern's Champions League Group F decider against Valencia tomorrow, Martinez spoke to the media regarding a number of topics earlier today.
“I am happy to come back to Spain to play. Obviously I miss some things from Spain, such as the weather, but I'm happy and do not regret my choice.
“Both teams will go out to win the game, it's like the end of a mini group. Mestalla is very difficult, I've been there many times with Athletic and had problems.
“I think Valencia are in a good time and are a very difficult opponent. Every year they sell players but they are always there near the top of the League.”
The 24-year-old then discussed his start to life as a Bayern player, echoing Coach Jupp Heynckes insistence that he needed time to adapt.
“When I arrived one of the first things I did was meet with Heynckes and make a plan. With Athletic last year I played 60 games and I only had nine days vacation, after playing the European championships and Olympics.”
Martinez was asked about former teammate Fernando Llorente, who unlike him did not get his desired move away from San Mames and has today refused to attend a Press conference.
“I don't know what happened but he has gone through tough times. I can only encourage him and hope everything gets settled.”
