Riquelme - I rejected Spurs

Argentina star says he rejected the chance to move to White Hart Lane

Last updated: 28th November 2007

Juan Riquelme

Riquelme: Spurs claim

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Juan Roman Riquelme has claimed he received an offer to join Tottenham, but could not resist the chance to return to his homeland.

The Argentina midfielder is on the verge of a move back to Boca Juniors after falling out of favour with his coach at Villarreal, Manuel Pelligrini.

And while he says he is grateful for Tottenham's interest, he favours a return to Argentina.

"I thank them for their interest, but my family and I want to return home," he said.

Riquelme has not featured for Villarreal so far this season, but remains an integral part of the Argentina squad, and he says a move to Boca is the best way to ensure he remains in the international fold.

"I am a simple person and all I want is to play football every Sunday.

"This move is the only chance I have to play at the next World Cup, which is the thing that motivates me most.

"People should know that, of the three parties, I am the one who has made the biggest effort and that I have offered to play a year for free with Boca.

"I have also told Villarreal they do not have to pay me what they owe me for another year and a half."