"I felt extremely wanted" - Saviola

Latest Benfica recruit explains decison

Javier Saviola has uttered his first words as a Benfica player and the Argentine states that the Portuguese club's commitment and desire was what swayed him to leave Real Madrid and re-launch his career with the Libson club.

The 27-year-old has had a spell to forget at the Spanish capital with the merengues as Saviola only played 23 matches over the last two seasons, hence prompting a move away from the Liga outfit.

Despite his unquestionable talent, Saviola has been viewed at times as a player who is only in it for the money. But the former Barcelona marksman admits to taking a pay-cut to join the Aguias  and just wants to play football on a regular basis once again.

"I lowered my salary to come to Benfica. I looked at the squad at Benifca and, sincerely, it is a group with a lot of quality and potential," stated Saviola to ABola. "We can construct a team that will be very competitive, capable of challenging for victories on all fronts."

The player known as El Conego goes further and adds that the club's executives' convinction and belief in him was important, as was the consulation of countryman Pablo Aimar.

Reclaim form

"Benifca is a very important club in Portugal and in Europe. Aimar told me very good things, but what really counted was the determination I saw in Rui Costa, the president and the coaching staff to bring me to the club."

"I felt extremely wanted and I couldn't resist the move. It is beautiful to see all the confidence placed in me. I feel proud and motivated, and I want to indemnify these feelings."

"My objective is to play with regularity, something that has not happened in the last little while. I want to feel useful and important to my team-mates again."

by Marco Pereira