Kevin Gameiro: I rejected Barcelona to join Atletico Madrid
ByFootballEspana
Kevin Gameiro has revealed that he rejected Barcelona before signing for Atletico Madrid.
Gameiro ended heavy speculation linking him with Barca when he joined Atleti for €37m last week, and the former Sevilla striker admits the prospect of being La Blaugrana’s fourth-choice attacker was less appealing to him than staying in Andalusia.
“I would’ve only got a few minutes [at Barca],” he told L’Equipe.
“[Simeone] told me he was looking for a player like me, who was able to offer something in defence and attack and also be a goalscorer. Above all, [it had to be] someone who could blend in with the collective.
“In fact, it was more likely that I’d stay at Sevilla than go to Barcelona.
“I knew that if I went to Barcelona, my situation would’ve been the fourth attacker. I think my playing time would’ve been reduced.
“[Atleti] were, above all, a sporting option. My agents informed me of more attractive offers financially, but I wanted to stay in Spain.
“I feel very good here and so do my family, plus La Liga is one of the best competitions [in the world].
“Only Spanish teams have won European trophies in the last three years.”
Read the original article on Football Espana - The ultimate website for English-speaking fans of Spanish football
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