David Villa and Adrian Lopez have explained that there is no issue in the striker not taking his traditional No 7 shirt at Atletico Madrid.
The forward has generally worn the number through his career but, in completing a transfer from Barcelona to Atleti this summer, has taken the No 9 shirt vacated by Radamel Falcao.
Adrian maintains hold of the No 7 at the Vicente Calderon and it is no issue for the 31-year-old.
“I have had many numbers, all have brought me luck,” explained Villa first up to Mahou.
“The No 7 here is Adrian, who looks great and has impressive quality. When I spoke to people at the club, I asked for a number that no-one else already had.
“I did not want trouble. I come here like everyone else. The No 9 was free, which is good for a striker.
“I am very excited to be here and to be playing for a great team. I am grateful to Atleti’s fans for their welcome.
“I have great motivation to do well and to play here not as a stage, but as a home. I come here to bring continuity to the club’s project, to keep winning.”
The interview was shared with Adrian, who commented that he wears the No 7 this season: “in honour of El Guaje. I wear it for you.
“Juan Mata encouraged me to wear it when with the Under-20 national team and, since then, I’ve always carried it with me.”
