New Arsenal signing David Ospina has spoken for the first time since joining the north London club from Nice.
The goalkeeper, who starred for Colombia at this year's World Cup in Brazil, was confirmed as a Gunner today after signing a long-term contract at the Emirates.
And Ospina, 25, is relishing the prospect of playing for Arsene Wenger's men, admitting it was a 'dream come true' to move to a club of Arsenal's stature.
In a Q&A on the club's official website (www.arsenal.com), Ospina spoke at length about his departure from Nice and why Arsenal were such an attractive club to join.
Here is Ospina's interview with Arsenal in its entirety…
David, welcome to Arsenal – how does it feel to have signed for the club?
Thank you very much. First, I would like to thank everyone here at Arsenal for trusting in me as a player, I am extremely happy to be a part of such a great team. It is a dream come true and I will approach this challenge with responsibility and give my best.
What do you know about Arsenal?
I know a lot, it is a big club in Europe. This is a dream come true, for me and also for my family and I’m looking forward to it.
What appeals to you most about playing for the club?
The fact that Arsenal are always fighting for the top, among the best and this is a massive step forward in my career.
How much are you looking forward to playing at Emirates Stadium?
A lot. Since the opportunity of coming here showed up, I cannot wait to start training, to meet all my new team-mates and give my best. It’s a big step in my career.
You’re Arsenal’s first Colombian player – how proud are you of that?
Extremely proud, and I’m expecting to do very well so other Colombian players can also come here.
How has the news been greeted at home?
With happiness – everyone is very happy at home! My wife and my daughter are looking forward to coming here, my parents are very happy as well and like I said before, I’m hoping to do well.
How influential was Arsène Wenger in your decision to come to the club?
Very influential, we had a chat and he is a very experienced manager; someone who is fair, correct and knows how to get the best out of his players.
You will be competing with Wojciech Szczesny – how highly do you rate him?
He is a great goalkeeper, very skilful. He has been a regular at a top side like Arsenal, so he is quality. We also have the Argentine goalkeeper Damien Martinez. They are both young players but very experienced.
You’re Arsenal’s third signing of the summer – what did you make of the signings ofAlexis Sanchez and Mathieu Debuchy?
They are great players; they have both been doing very well at club and international level. It is great for Arsenal that players of this quality have joined the squad.
How confident are you that Arsenal can compete for biggest prizes next season?
I’m very confident. I believe we are putting together a brilliant squad, with top players. Now we all have to be fit for the manager, and I’m confident things will go well, during games and training.
