New Napoli signing Jose Maria Callejon is optimistic his form in Italy will earn him a call-up to Vicente del Bosque’s Spain squad.
The 26-year-old joined the Serie A outfit from Real Madrid last week for a reported €10m fee and hopes it is a move that will catapult him into the Spain boss’s thoughts before next year’s World Cup in Brazil.
“I am here and obviously it is my goal for Napoli to become champions of Italy. Of course, I also hope to achieve a place in the Spanish national side but to do that I have to play well for Napoli,” maintained Callejon in declarations to the Italian club’s official website.
The winger also spoke of Napoli’ performances last term, when they finished second, and commented on new boss Rafa Benitez and Jose Mourinho, his former Coach at Real Madrid.
“Last year Napoli had a great League season and that was one of the reasons I came here. This year will be a fascinating challenge, both in Italy and Europe.
“Leaving Real Madrid is never easy but for me Napoli is a major step in my career. Benitez’s call convinced me but this is a fantastic club internationally and I’m sure we can prove that in the Champions League.
“Personally, I’m grateful to Mourinho, who helped me to get into the first team at Madrid, but now I’m very happy to be in Naples.
“I’m very enthusiastic about wearing this shirt and I can’t wait to play in the San Pablo [Stadium].”
The Andalusian-born player admits champions Juventus, who have signed compatriot Fernando Llorente, will again be the team to beat next season, yet he feels there will be more competition for the title than in Spain.
“In Italy there are a lot of good teams and Serie A, compared to La Liga, is more difficult to win and the marking is tighter.”
Finally, the former Espanyol player stressed he can also play in different positions in attack and said it will be ‘up to Benitez’ to decide in what role he will be more useful to the team.
