Arthur: "Xavi and Iniesta are two people I've always admired"
The Brazilian admitted that he's dreamt of playing for Barcelona since he was a child and had spoken to several of his countrymen ahead of the move
"Since I was a child I've dreamt of playing for Barcelona one day," confessed Arthur as he was presented as a new Barcelona player in front the media. He was accompanied by Jordi Mestre and Eric Abidal.
Under the watch of Arthur's family, friends and also Andre Cury, Barcelona's representative in Brazil, the vice president of Barcelona revealed the fees of the transfer: €31m up front with €9m in variables and Arthur had signed a six-year deal. His buyout clause is €400m.
Before Arthur spoke, Abidal wanted to say a few words about his new signing. "He's a player we've been watching for a long time at the club and we decided it was best to bring forward his arrival. This is because it'd be much better for him to start and work with the team now and not have to wait until January. Arthur is a footballer who fits the Barcelona style perfectly. Technically he's very good and has great vision. He's still very young but at Barcelona he'll continue growing because he's got so much potential."
Arthur, who was visibly emotional and still a little shy after arriving in Europe, assured everyone that he was happy. "I'm very happy because the dream I've had since I was a child has come true, for that reason I want to thank everyone who helped make this possible."
On various occasions he needed to listen to comparisons people have made between the Brazilian midfielder and Barça legend Xavi Hernandez. "For me, it doesn't put me under any pressure. The opposite even, it's an honour and a privilege. I've seen lots of Barcelona matches since I was very young and I know the style of football they play at this club. For that reasons I'm happy to wear this Barcelona shirt just as some of my fellow compatriots have done before and had great success here."
Arthur revealed who he spoke to before his move to the Camp Nou. "Neymar, Paulinho and Coutinho and everyone else told me that I'd be very happy at Barcelona. It's a great city, with great weather which is similar to that in Brazil. And everything here makes it easier to work. Their words have been a great comfort to me."
Talking about Xavi and Andres Iniesta he said: "They have always been two people I've looked up to, they're an example to everyone, and I'll do everything possible to get close to their level of performances. For me, Barcelona is a huge task but I'm sure they are going to help me develop a lot as a footballer."
