Barcelona sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta says he has no doubts over the signing of Thomas Vermaelen.
Vermaelen today signed his contract with La Blaugrana after moving from Arsenal and Zubi was asked at the ensuing Press conference why the club had gone for the Gunners captain.
“He’s a left-sided centre-back who can play at left-back,” Zubizarreta explained, according to Marca.
“He’s used to having the ball and he complements our defensive line, giving us a lot of tactical options.
“He has extensive international experience and great prestige, coming from being captain of Arsenal. He will give us competitiveness in defence.
“I want to thank him for choosing Barcelona as he had other good offers.”
The subject of Vermaelen’s patchy injury record was raised but Zubi rejected the suggestion there was anything to be concerned about.
“We have no doubt about the physical response of Vermaelen,” he added.
“We have one of the best medical and recuperation services in the world.”
Asked if Barca had finished their shopping for the summer, Zubi offered an evasive answer.
“We’ve completed a defensive line of a high level. Between now and August 31 there is time in the market and we have to work on multiple exits,” he went on.
“We’re happy with what we’ve got and if there’s an option to improve we will, if not we will keep what we’ve got.”
Zubi was asked about a player who it has been confirmed has left, Ibrahim Afellay, and Dani Alves, who has been linked with the exit.
“I want to thank Afellay for all he has given to the club and we wish him luck and health,” Zubi said.
“He deserves it because he is a great professional and a great guy.
“I haven’t closed or opened options at right-back. Alves has a contract and we have never spoken to him about anything more.
“On his return he spoke to the Coach in a normal conversation when one returns. We don’t have information from his agent to make us think things are happening.
“I talked to Luis Enrique and he is very happy with him.”
