David Villa has been presented to Atletico Madrid fans and the media this week and declared his dedication to his new team.
The 31-year-old last week completed a cut-price €5.1m transfer from Barcelona and will serve as Atleti’s primary replacement for Radamel Falcao.
Presented to a crowd of 20,000 fans at the Vicente Calderon on Monday evening, the striker reflected on his new club.
“Thank you for this, truly. I have been very happy since the move was announced, but I want to go further, I have been very happy since the club were in contact with my representatives and showed that they wanted and needed me,” Villa told those present.
“I have to thank all the people at the club and all of the fans. They have made me feel the warmth of a big crowd. I promise I am going to give my all in every game and in every training session. I want the maximum success.
“My position? In principle I have spoken with Simeone and will play in the No 9 position, but I have told you that I am here for the team and my availability is for the position that I am given.”
Villa struggled for first team activity in his final season, having missed the early stages of the campaign still in recovery from a leg break sustained in December 2011.
“The injury was very significant, but I have been very happy. This last season I did not play in every game that I wanted to, but I have closed one stage. Now I am very excited. I will work to help get that first title.
“I am very proud of the team here, not just for the last few days, but for all that they have shown in previous years.
“We have a very good team to fight for all our objectives. Atletico to me are now one of the best teams in the world.
“Coincidentally my first game will be against Barcelona [in the Super Cup] and it will be exciting.”
Villa will wear the No 9 next season.
“The club said I could take the number that was free. No 7 is Adrian’s number and there was no debate, though had he offered it to me, I would not have accepted.
“I said I would take the number that was free and that no-one wanted, because that was fair.”
