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BARCELONA

André Gomes: “I preferred Barça's philosophy to Real Madrid's"

The Portuguese midfielder was unveiled by the Catalan club on Wednesday at Mini Estadi and took questions from the media...

Update:
André Gomes: “I preferred Barça's philosophy to Real Madrid's"
ALBERT GEAREUTERS

FC Barcelona’s new signing André Gomes was officially presented at Mini Estadi on Wednesday, accompanied by his family, girlfriend, and agent Jorge Mendes.

The Portuguese midfielder, who completed his surprise transfer last week for a fee of €35 million (plus up to €20m more in add-ons) gave his first official press conference as a Barça player. And after giving his thanks to the club in an opening speech, he took some questions from the media.

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What does it mean to sign for Barça? “As I said before, I had to choose the club which I thought was best for me and my family. I didn’t have any doubts. I had to choose and I think I chose the best.”

Competition for place in starting XI: “There are a lot of great players in centre-midfield, and what I have to do is just to grow and learn. I have many players here as a reference. I’m 22 and I’ve lots of time to get better.”

Why Barca and not Madrid...?

“It’s a personal issue. Everyone is different. The club which was best for me was Barcelona. It doesn’t matter about any others. It was Barça, full stop. It has to do with my philosophy and club’s philosophy.”

Have you spoken with the boss? “I’ve spoken with Luis Enrique. He’s told me to work hard and that he’s excited to begin [the new season].”

What do you expect for next season? “To win everything.”

Messi or Ronaldo? Everyone knows what great players they are and it’s an honour to be able to play with both of them. Each has his different style. I want to enjoy my new club and playing with my new teammates, especially other world-class players like Iniesta.