Radamel Falcao has revealed he had no choice but to leave Atletico Madrid in 2013 after two seasons at the Vicente Calderon.
The Colombian striker netted 70 goals in 91 appearances for Los Rojiblancos, with his last match for the club the Copa Del Rey final victory over Real Madrid in the Bernabeu – his one and only piece of silverware with Diego Simeone’s side and their first victory over their city rivals in 14 years.
"They never offered to let me stay," he said. "Monaco opened their doors to me and I am very happy.
"The impression they [Atletico] gave me was that the club had to sell me to survive. We understood the financial situation."
The 30-year-old has recovered from a long-term cruciate ligament injury and disappointing loan spells with Manchester United and Chelsea but is now excelling with French club Monaco both domestically and in Europe, but did not commit his long-term future to the club.
"I have a contract until 2018 — after that we will see what happens," he continued.
