New Verona signing Rafa Marquez says money did not enter into his thoughts as he was negotiating his contract.
The Mexican captain has joined the Scaligeri from previous club Leon and, speaking at the Press conference to announce his unveiling today, he expressed his desire to help his new team qualify for Europe.
“I am very happy with the interest Hellas Verona showed in me,” Marquez told reporters.
New Verona signing Rafa Marquez says money did not enter into his thoughts as he was negotiating his contract.
The Mexican captain has joined the Scaligeri from previous club Leon and, speaking at the Press conference to announce his unveiling today, he expressed his desire to help his new team qualify for Europe.
“I am very happy with the interest Hellas Verona showed in me,” Marquez told reporters.
“The motivation is clear, we want to get back into Europe in one of the most important Leagues in the world.
“I am very surprised by the welcome I have received, it is incredible. It gives me even more responsibility and excitement to be here.
“I signed a contract for lower wages than I have received in the past, I just want to get into Europe and play for Hellas. Money was not important in this decision.
“Verona were not the only club to want me, but their offer convinced me to come here.”
Marquez also revealed he is looking forward to linking up with veteran forward Luca Toni but denied he is expecting to be made Scaligeri captain.
“Toni? It will be special to play with him, he has a lot of experience and had a great season last year.
“It’s not important for me to be captain, I just want to express myself on the pitch.
“I spoke to the Coach and the formation will be the same as it was last year, so it will be up to me to adapt in the best way I can.
“The Italian League is very difficult, there are lots of teams at the same level and that it different to other Leagues.”
Finally, the former Barcelona man admitted one of his objectives this season is to face Milan’s Mario Balotelli.
“I want to play against Balotelli, he is a player with unique qualities who I still haven’t faced.
“I haven’t come here just to achieve safety but to do something more. I don’t know whether we will win the Scudetto but we will always aim for the maximum.”