I've thought long and I am convinced that I must be true to myself. I do not think I put a ceiling on the ability to keep learning, to keep growing. After five years of intense personal stage is over and I have to give way to a new one. I'm about to turn 23 and I have everything before. Suffice it to say that this is not an economic issue but strictly sports. So I want to clearly express my appreciation to the club for the efforts he has made for keeping up with a salary according to the largest institutions in the world.
I want to say also that this decision have been maturing for some time. Even the issue was discussed and agreed with Atletico last year on the occasion of renewing my contract. I wanted to sign, renew, as a way to return the club and all the mattress all you have given me. Have not done so, had stayed in freedom of action and the institution had not received any money for my transfer. I then had the promise of the Club would not impediments to my eventual departure in June 2011. So attentive to that commitment and unwavering view of my decision, I asked him to listen without any conditions that may get offers from different clubs.
And for the fans, my eternal gratitude. Not trying to be original or say the politically correct. I'd rather say what I feel, beyond all other considerations. Because I know that the only way they will understand is if I do from my heart. That was the way I felt I talked all these years, with sincere love and affection. You are already part of my identity and a way of understanding football. We share joys and disappointments. The 101 goals and obtaining two titles after so many years of drought. I will never forget the celebration in Neptune and that night in Barcelona when we could not win the Copa del Rey. Well worth it, right? All those experiences ended up reaffirming something in me that I have from childhood: the desire to compete, win and be among the best with the only weapons I have: my game and my love for football.
I do not want to fall into the commonplace to say that this is not a goodbye but a see you later. But if you say something once told me that said a very famous Argentinean tango, Anibal Troilo and that is very appropriate for this time: "Who said I left? If I'm ever going ... "
A hug for everyone. I love you. "
Kun