Pellegrini wanted me and that's important for me - Lugano

Pellegrini wanted me and that is important, says Lugano

Jan 25, 2013 11:00:00 PM

The Uruguay international is delighted with his move to La Rosaleda and is aiming to make a big impact on Costa del Sur

New Malaga signing Diego Lugano has revealed Manuel Pellegrini's desire to add him to his squad was an important factor in his decision to swap Paris for the south coast of Spain.

The Uruguayan has joined Pellegrini's side on a six-month loan from French giants Paris Saint-Germain and feels that he is in great shape physically despite having not made a single appearance in Ligue 1 this season.

“Pellegrini knows me well from South America and he told me that he personally wanted me in the group for my footballing characteristics. And that’s important for a player’s confidence," he told AS.

“There is no time for adaptation, I have been here since Tuesday. Physically I am fine. I have played with my country but I am missing minutes on the pitch,” reflected the centre-back at his presentation this week.

“I aim to be included in the team, to do the best I can and try to get many minutes. Coming here was best for me. I want to give everything I have.

“My introduction? It was easy, because it is the first time in many years that I understood the language. I know many of my new teammates, with Baptista from Sao Paulo to Sebita with the national team and Santa Cruz and Demichelis.

“The idea is to come and reach a good level so as to continue. Four or five months is an eternity in football and the idea is to continue with the project that I have embarked on.”