Saul Niguez has billed himself as the ultimate team player following the completion of his move from Atletico Madrid to Chelsea.
The midfielder’s move looked to be off on deadline day after Atletico failed to find a replacement for the Spanish international. But with Chelsea pushing hard for the deal, it is understood that the player himself forced through the transfer, which gives the Blues an option to buy at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old, who has played 19 games for La Roja, arrives at Stamford Bridge after winning a La Liga title, two Europa Leagues and a UEFA Super Cup in Madrid.
Speaking after arriving in London, Niguez has told his new supporters what they can look forward to from him on the pitch.
“I am a team-player, I always play for the team,’ he told Chelsea FC.
“I could define myself as a box-to-box midfielder. I like joining the attacks and score goals but also defending when needed. I think it is really important for me in order to feel comfortable on the pitch and to deliver for Chelsea.
“About the fans, I am really grateful. I’ve received tons of positive messages from them so thank you very much and I’ll give it my all for this club.”
Chelsea already have three Spanish internationals at the club in the shape of Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso and Kepa Arrizabalaga, a factor that will be crucial to Saul’s hopes of settling in quickly.
“Having Azpilicueta, Marcos and Kepa, especially Kepa, who has shared a room with me since we started playing at the Spain National Youth football team, it’s very important,” he said.
“But I already told Kepa to speak to me in English. I need to learn and get used to it.”
Saul could make his Chelsea debut at home to Aston Villa on September 11 following the end of the international break.
