Wednesday 1 August 2007 08:08, UK
Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Daniel Aranzubia has rejected a move to Real Zaragoza.
Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Daniel Aranzubia has rejected a move to Real Zaragoza, insisting his heart told him to stay with Athletic.The 27-year-old has spent his entire career to date with the Basque outfit and opted against ending his 13-year association with the club.
"As a professional, the interest of Zaragoza fills me with pride and I would like to thank them publicly," he stated.
"But my intention has always been to continue with the team who I joined when I was 14 and who I have never wanted to leave.
"In the end my heart won the argument. I have spent all my life here wanting to play for Athletic and I am going to keep doing that until I have no other option but to leave."
New Athletic coach Joaquin Caparros has made it clear he intends to sign another goalkeeper with Espanyol's Gorka Iriazoz known to be his preferred option.
Aranzubia - who has only one year left on his contract at San Mames - accepts he will face a fight to remain as first choice next season, but insists he is happy to stay and battle for his place.
"I have spoken to the boss and he has accepted my decision.
"He also told me that the club is looking to strengthen its goalkeeping stable, but I have every confidence in my ability.
"Strengthening the squad is a good thing as it brings more competition to the group and I want to be part of that group."
