New West Ham signing Alvaro Arbeloa admits that he had offers from Spain in the summer, but has revealed that he didn’t want to play for another Spanish team after leaving Real Madrid.
The Hammers secured the signature of the veteran defender on a free transfer on deadline day last week, and ended the Spaniard’s summer long search for a new club.
Competing in the Premier League is an attraction for the player, but Arbeloa revealed that he had offers to continue in Spain after his contract with Real Madrid expired at the end of last season.
However, the 33-year-old admits that after representing the European champions he had no interest in playing for another Spanish team and decided to move to England, where he feels there are a lot of quality players and managers competing in a top league.
Speaking to Cope about his summer, Arbeloa said: “There were some [offers] from Spain, but my intention was to leave Spain because I didn’t want to wear another shirt that was not Real Madrid.
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“I needed to get out, and provide my family a good choice and a great experience.
"Additionally, the Premier League this season looks good as there are many top players and managers in it.”
Arbeloa won two European Cups with Real Madrid, amongst many other honours, and notched up 238 appearances for the Spanish giants.
