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Meireles: Easy decision to join Fenerbahce
Sep 5, 2012 4:15:00 PM
The midfielder insists he did not hesitate to accept the Turkish giants' offer, despite already playing for the reigning European champions, and reveals he spoke with Dirk Kuyt
Raul Meireles says it was an easy decision to join Fenerbahce from Chelsea, after completing his transfer to the Sukru Saracoglu.The 29-year-old made 42 appearances for the Blues last season, helping the side to FA Cup and Champions League honours, but slipped down the pecking order following a flurry of new arrivals.
He chose to sign a four-year deal with Fenerbahce on Monday, for a fee believed to be in the region of €10 million, and he claims he could not say 'no' to the Turkish club's advances.
"As soon as I heard of Fenerbahce's interest, it made me very excited," he told FBTV.
"It was an easy decision to accept Fenerbahce's offer, because they have a long history and are universally recognised as a great club.
"I love to be heard on the field and I believe we can be successful in the future. Your personal achievements are important, but most [important] of all is that the team wins."
Meireles adds to a strong Portuguese contingent in the Super Lig, following the likes of international colleagues Ricardo Quaresma, Hugo Almeida and Manuel Fernandes.
However, he admits the inspiration behind his move came from former Liverpool team-mate Dirk Kuyt, who he will reacquaint himself with at Fenerbahce.
"I have friends that play in Turkey, especially in Istanbul. Dirk Kuyt told me all about its beauty."
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