Spanish striker Fernando Torres spoke of his excitement at the new chapter in his career after arriving in Milan to finalise his move from Chelsea. The Blues and AC Milan announced the agreement of a two-year loan deal on Friday evening, taking the 30-year-old to the expiration of his contract in 2016.
FernandoTorres excited about his move from Chelsea to Italian club AC Milan
The Rossoneri confirmed on Twitter on Saturday that Torres had landed at Milan's Linate Airport, where he was greeted by 200 fans, and posted a picture of the player holding an AC Milan scarf before announcing he was at the Madonnina Clinic undergoing his medical.
Torres told the Milan Channel he could not wait to get started working under coach Filippo Inzaghi after a frustrating and underwhelming three and a half years at Stamford Bridge.
"I'm really happy to have arrived in Milan," he said. "I can't wait to do the medical, meet the fans and my new team-mates. I cannot wait to start this new adventure. I spoke to the coach (on Friday) and I am really pleased to work with a coach like him. He was a great goalscorer and definitely understands what the role of a striker is. I am sure that he can teach me and help me a lot in this adventure."
Torres revealed he had nearly become a Milan player before leaving Atletico Madrid for Liverpool in 2007.
"I was close to joining Milan when I was at Atletico Madrid, but we're talking about many years ago," he said. "A long time has since passed. I've now finally arrived at Milan. Playing for Milan isn't easy. It's an honour and a privilege to wear this shirt. I want to give my best and help the side have a great season."
The Rossoneri endured a dismal Italian Serie A campaign last term, finishing eighth, 45 points behind champions Juventus, and missing out on European competition for the first time in 16 years. Head coach Inzaghi, who was promoted from the youth team at the end of last season following Clarence Seedorf's dismissal, faces a challenging task to restore Milan's pride, but Torres is relishing the prospect.
"When you play for Milan, there are always big expectations," he said. "After a difficult season, all the players and the fans want to get back into the Champions League and fight for trophies. It will be a nice challenge trying to get back into the top three in the league and subsequently have the chance to play in the Champions League next year. Then, why not try and win something already this year? I'm expecting good things from this season."
Much was expected of Torres when he arrived at Chelsea from Liverpool in January 2011 for what was a British record fee, but he fell well short of living up to his £50m price tag. He now appears to have played his last match for the Blues, and has set his sights on being with Milan for "many years".
"I thank the fans for the welcome," he said. "Through the social network sites and my official website I've seen that they are as happy as I am. I am sure that it will all go well. I can promise that I will give 100 per cent and that with their help this experience will be fantastic and for many years, I hope."
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