Andre Gomes: It is a dream to play for Barcelona - World Sport

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27/07/2016

Andre Gomes: It is a dream to play for Barcelona

With the drawn-out process over his move to Barcelona now complete, Andre Gomes has spoken of his pride in being signed from Valencia.
It appeared the deal was done last week when the Blaugrana announced his switch, but Los Che did not follow suit until Wednesday morning , claiming contracts had not been formally signed and Gomes hadn't passed his medical.
Now the 22-year-old can focus on trying to achieve more success at the Camp Nou, having lifted the European Championship with Portugal earlier this summer, and he admitted it was an honour to sign for the club which suited him best, despite Real Madrid's well-documented interest.
"It's an honour to wear this shirt," he told reporters at his unveiling. "I've fulfilled a dream for me and my family, I had to choose and I chose the best team.
"Each team has their own style, and Barcelona fits mine best. It has to do with my identity, philosophy and what I consider important to football."
Competition for places is intense in midfield, with the likes of Andres Iniesta, Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets also proving options for Luis Enrique, but Gomes believes he can adapt to any situation that befalls him this season.
"I have time to grow here, it is a great feeling and I will do what I can to improve," he added. "It is true there are many great players in the midfield here.
"I want to learn, these players are my reference as I'm just 22-years-old."
Having starred alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at international level, Gomes is pleased to get the opportunity to play with the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Neymar and Andres Iniesta.
"I play with Ronaldo for Portugal, now I get to perform with Messi, I'm also happy to appear with Neymar and Suarez," he said.
"Playing with these players, and Iniesta too, was part of my decision."
But above all, Gomes has one clear objective in mind this season.
"The most important thing is to win titles," he concluded.

While the media were gathered to witness Andre Gomes' presentation, Barcelona confirmed that Javier Mascherano has signed a new three-year deal amidst uncertainty over his future.
It had been believed that the Argentine was seeking a new challenge, with a move to Juventus and a reunion with Dani Alves mooted, but it appears that possibility has been quashed.
"This may not be the time, because it is Andre's day, but we have reached an agreement with Javier Mascherano, who will sign a new three-year contract," said Barcelona director Albert Soler during Gomes' press conference.
Losing such an experienced player would have been a hammer blow to the Blaugrana, and sporting director Robert Fernandez was glad the issue was resolved.
"It took time, but we eventually knew what would happen with mMascherano," he added. "We are very happy that he will stay with us."
Despite his natural position as a midfielder, Mascherano has often been deployed as a defender during his six years at the Camp Nou.

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