Diego Simeone has added fresh Argentinean blood to his roster today, as Nico Gaitan was unveiled as Atletico Madrid's midfielder.
The former Boca Juniors and Benfica player spoke about the reasons why he chose to join the UEFA Champions League runners up
"I wanted to be here since last year, but we couldn't make it happen. I know 'Cholo' (Diego Simeone) has been following my performances over the past couple of years, so that's why I decided to come here. I don't know what's in store for me, all I want to do is get out there and see how things go," Gaitán stated.
27 - @NicoGaitan has provided the most assists in the last two Primeira Liga seasons (13 on 14/15 and 14 on 15/16). Welcome
— OptaJose (@OptaJose) July 19, 2016
The player showed some of his ball-handling skills while wearing the red-and-white kit for the first time. An unconfirmed amount of fans were allowed inside the Vicente Calderón Stadium to greet Atletico's new signing.
The Copa América finalist with Argentina autographed a couple of balls and sent them to the stands as a gift.
One fan even asked him to give away his new jersey, but Gaitán replied "I can't! This is the first one I have!"
¡Se acabó! Nico Gaitán se mete en el túnel de vestuarios de su nuevo equipo. Su presentación ha finalizado pic.twitter.com/qEqVN8Zrvc
— Atleti CD (@CD_Atleti) July 19, 2016
The player shared his happiness on social media, sending a message to Atletico's fanbase. "I want to thank Atleti and all the fans for the warm welcome! I'm really happy to be here.
¡Gracias a @Atleti y a los hinchas por el recibimiento! Estoy muy contento de estar acá pic.twitter.com/iB7P15Uzb0
— Nico Gaitán (@nicogaitan) July 19, 2016