Why did you choose Atletico Madrid? What is your biggest motivation here?
Because they are a great team and they offered me a great opportunity to play in an important league in world football. To play in Spain has always been a goal in my career, so to receive a call from a team as big as Atletico really appealed to me.
How were you greeted here on your arrival?
They really made me welcome. Even I was surprised with everything they did for me and the way the fans and everyone at the club welcomed me. It was all very nice and I am feeling really good here at Atletico.
Atletico were hammered by Barcelona last week, how do you explain the gap?
This is football. Barcelona have an exceptional team and it wasn"t a happy day at all. It was one of those days where everything wen"t wrong for us and it all went right for them. Then, when you add the quality of their team, it was no use. We must learn from this and make sure there are no repeats.
What are your aims for the season?
We will strive to keep Atletico at the top, amongst the best. I think it is too early for title talk, but we must think about keeping Atletico in a good position, where we can keep fighting for the top spots.
Are you still following Santos this season? What advice would you give Neymar?
Yes, whenever possible. About Neymar, he is well on track and well advised. I would advise that he takes advantage of the remainder of this period to learn from and listen to the people who are really his friends. He is very talented and his career is going well, now he just needs to burst onto the world-stage.
Have you thought about a Seleção return? Has Mano already called you?
We have had no contact, but I certainly think about it a lot. Every player wants to represent their national team and to play for Brazil is an honour. I will fight hard to get some more opportunities [with the Seleção].
