Atletico Madrid defender Kieran Trippier has explained that he knew this summer was the right time for him to leave Tottenham.
Trippier has replaced Juanfran on the right-hand side of the defence at Los Rojiblancos and his encouraging start could well be a sign of things to come, with a great deal of excitement around his start to life in La Liga.
The England international completed his move from Tottenham this summer and also insisted it was always his intention to play abroad.
The 28-year-old moved to Los Rojiblancos in a €25m deal from the North London club and appears intent on gaining fluency in Spanish to speak to his teammates.
“As a footballer, you know when you need to move,” Trippier told an interview with Marca.
“It was a good decision for me. It was easy to come to Atletico. I think this is the best place to progress as a footballer, with the best Coach [Diego Simeone] to play with and learn from.
“With (Spurs boss, Mauricio) Pochettino I worked very hard and in Atlético it will be the same. I've always seen the team in the Champions League and in La Liga and I know how hard they work. When I came I was in good shape, I wanted to work, learn and try to do my best, that's all I can do.
“Our style of play? We are a very attractive team, I don't pay attention to what people say.
“It is a privilege to be at this great club. I hope to achieve great things with the team and have a good season.
“There are not many English players in Spain, the language can be difficult. It is a challenge that I have accepted, to play here and soak up the culture, the language…It is the main reason I came, so speaking in Spanish is my priority.
“My Spanish is a little less bad than when I arrived, it is difficult. I have three classes a week. I have a teacher who comes to my house and gives me homework.
“I really enjoy it, I try to learn as quickly as possible, I press myself to learn it because it is something that I want to improve to communicate with my teammates and get involved in Atlético. But I know it will take time.
“They (the coaches and players) speak very fast. The words I know understand them. It is very important for a new player to reach a team with players who have played in different countries and who help you a lot.
“Most surprising aspect of Atleti? How close everyone is, all of the staff…sometimes in England you don't have this, this club is like a family. For me it is very important to be part of it, I am very happy.
“I see that for years Atlético has the best defense and I want to be part of it. We work extremely hard in training to move to the matches and get results. I am absolutely excited to be ready to learn and hopeful for the future.”
