Arjen Robben has expressed his excitement and relief after completing his move to Real Madrid.
Dutchman happy move could go through
Arjen Robben has expressed his excitement and relief after completing his move to Real Madrid.
The Dutch winger had been linked with a move from Chelsea to Real all summer but the transfer only went through eight days before the close of the transfer window.
"For me it was really a big relief when yesterday the final word came that I could join Madrid," the 23-year-old said as he was presented to the Spanish media.
"I think it's a great honour if you're one of the promises of a president. Now I am here I think everybody is happy - the club is happy, I'm very happy."
"It has been difficult and it took a very long time. There were many moments when I thought I was going to Madrid the next day, and then it didn't happen.
"But in the end I got here, and although it took very long, I wanted to be here so I'm very happy."
A lot of money
Robben has agreed a five-year deal with Real for a fee reported to be in the region of £24million.
"I know it's a lot of money, I think it shows the interest Madrid had in bringing me here and it gives me a lot confidence," Robben said.
"They showed over the last few weeks that they were really willing to do everything to get me here, and that gave me a great feeling so I am very happy that finally the decision came."
Great experience
Robben added that he would remember his time at Stamford Bridge fondly, despite the injuries that troubled him after an eye-catching first season.
"I had three very nice years at Chelsea, it was a great experience for me personally," he said.
"In my first year, I think I had a very good year, but then I had some bad luck and for me I see this as a new start, a new challenge, without any injuries."
