Andre Gomes admits the Barcelona connection in his family “played a role in my decision”, despite Zinedine Zidane being an “example” to him growing up.
Gomes was involved in a much-publicised, transfer tug-of-war between Barca and Madrid but ultimately chose the former, and he explained how his affinity for La Blaugrana stemmed from his father.
“My decision [to join Barca] was personal. I left my father, who is a Cule, a little in the dark so he wouldn’t get anxious,” he told TV3.
“He was here around 18-20 years ago and already knew a little bit about the city and the stadium.
“He has feelings for the club, so of course my parents played a role in my decision.
“When I was little, there was one person who I loved very much – Ronaldo, ‘O Fenomeno’, from when he was at Barcelona and then Inter.
“Then, when I began to understand football a little more, Zidane was an important person and I saw him as an example, as I do [Andres] Iniesta today and, a few years ago, Xavi.
“They were also two very important players and now I have the chance to enjoy [playing alongside] one of them.”
