Courtois: Madrid a lifetime dream

New signing Thibaut Courtois says joining Real Madrid from Chelsea was the culmination of a lifetime dream.

The Belgium international was presented at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday and addressed assembled media with a short speech in Spanish.

“Thank you, because today I fulfilled a childhood dream and those who know me are aware of everything I’ve done and how hard I’ve worked to get here,” said the former Atletico Madrid stopper.

“I want to thank Real Madrid for their efforts and I’ve always done my best for every team I’ve played for. My dream is now a reality.

“I’ve played against this club as an opponent, and know what it’s like, but I’ve always dreamed of stepping onto the pitch at the Santiago Bernabeu wearing Madrid’s colours.

“This is the best club in the world. I am a ‘Madridista’ and want to defend this jersey, so thank you and Hala Madrid!”

The 26-year-old claimed he had received several more lucrative offers, which would have benefited him more financially, but only wanted a return to the Spanish capital, primarily because his children live there.

“I had a lot of offers this summer and some were better economically, but when I learned of the interest form Madrid I had no doubts about joining,” confessed Courtois.

“I was always fascinated by Madrid because of Iker Casillas when I watched football as a kid. Casillas got my attention because of his incredible reflexes between the sticks.”

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