Argentine midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme has expressed his delight at joining Barcelona after completing his 11million euro move from Boca Juniors.
“I justhave to get used to the game here as soon as possible and then hopefully give the fans something to cheer about,” Riquelme as he was unveiledto the Spanish press.
“With luck I’ll be a champion at Barcelona. That’s all I’m hoping for.”
The player was greeted at the airport was cheering Barcellona fans.
“I was a little surprised by the welcome,” Riquelme admitted. “I had no idea the people would care so much for me.”
Despite the fanfare accompanying his arrival there is a strong possibility that the 23-year-old Riquelme may be loaned out this season as Barcelona have exceeded their quota of non-European players.
However, Barcelona coach Louis van Gaal deflected any talk of a loan move when he welcomed Riquelme to the club.
“I’m very happy,” said the Dutch coach. “He’s a player with a lot of talent. He’ll have to work hard, though, as will everyone else here.”