David Hancko explains shock Al-Nassr transfer collapse was his decision before joining Atletico Madrid from Feyenoord

Hancko became the sixth summer signing for Atletico Madrid after completing a €30 million (£26m/$35m) move from Eredivisie giants Feyenoord, but not before the fiasco surrounding his failed move to Al-Nassr. The defender has now admitted that his decision to join Los Rojiblancos was ultimately what caused his move to Saudi Arabia to fall through.  

It had been reported in July that Hancko had reached a personal agreement with Al-Nassr. Feyenoord, too, were believed to be in agreement over transfer fees. However, the move fell through at the last moment, as reports claimed that the Saudi heavyweights abandoned the operation just moments before Hancko was scheduled to undergo medicals. Al-Nassr pulling the plug sparked a furious reaction from Feyenoord, with a spokesperson from the club stating that their treatment of the defender was "truly scandalous." The Slovakian, however, has provided more insight regarding the controversy, admitting that it was his decision not to join Al-Nassr.   

Speaking at his presentation, Hancko explained: "The offer from Saudi Arabia was there. The story ended according to my wish, which was to play here. As soon as Atletico Madrid came forward with the deal, I wanted to come here. We wanted to come to Madrid." 

It remains to be seen whether Hancko will play a part in the friendly against Porto on Saturday, but he can be expected to make his unofficial debut for his new club on August 9 against Newcastle United.