Ezequiel Lavezzi has been presented to the Press this evening as an official Paris Saint-Germain player and has explained his reasons for leaving Serie A.
Ezequiel Lavezzi has been presented to the Press this evening as an official Paris Saint-Germain player and has explained his reasons for leaving Serie A.
Rumours through 2011-12 spoke of Lavezzi’s desire to leave Napoli this summer, and it quickly became apparent that he would be leaving with confirmation that talks with PSG were being held.
A deal for the 27-year-old, who spent five years with Napoli, has now been confirmed, and in being unveiled to the media on Monday evening, Lavezzi explained his motives for joining the French League runners up.
“Welcome everyone. I’ve been very quiet during these past few weeks. I have used this time to enjoy the holidays and recharge my batteries for next season,” began Lavezzi to the assembled media.
“Also, the deal has materialised in this time. What convinced me to come here is the project at Paris Saint-Germain.
“In sporting terms, a club like PSG will help me progress. I believe that within a short space of time this club can become one of the most important clubs, like Barcelona.
“The League is a very competitive one. There is a great opportunity to win titles and I intend to contribute.”
The forward was asked if his departure was another sign that Serie A is a League that is in crisis.
“I don’t think Serie A is in crisis, it is one of the most competitive Leagues. I repeat, what has prompted me to come here was the project, and also PSG’s desire to buy me.
“Moreover, this city is beautiful for any player. I hope to find the same warmth that I found in Naples.
“My role model? As a child I loved the way Claudio Caniggia played.
“Speaking French? I’ll have to learn the language quickly, I think that communication is very important for any group.”
Lavezzi revealed that new teammate Javier Pastore had spoken to him about the club.
“He told me a lot about the club, of course. But also, of the city of Paris. I spoke with him when we were together with the national team. Not during my holiday, but yes, we had previously discussed Paris Saint-Germain together.”
Sporting director Leonardo also spoke briefly at the conference.
“Ezequiel has signed for four years with us and is a player that we have followed for a long time, we are very happy to welcome him here.
“He is a very important player to arrive here. It will mark a day in the club’s history, I am sure.
“The club has the belief of advancing as a team with his personality and quality. A player like Ezequiel will pull the group up.
“Paris looks forward, the future will be rich, I am sure.”