I can help Anzhi win titles: Diarra

Moscow – New Anzhi signing Lassana Diarra says the experience he brings to the Russian side means silverware is achievable this season.

The 27-year-old French international was officially unveiled at RIA Novosti Monday a week after the club confirmed his transfer from Real Madrid.

Diarra racked up 117 appearances with Real and has 28 caps for his country, experience that can help bring his new club the Russian Premier League title or even the Europa League crown, he claimed.

“The European experience I have from these teams, I will try and bring that to our club, and thanks to this we can have a shot at one of the titles this season, why not?”

He insisted he had the motivation to propel his new team to the glory demanded by billionaire owner Suleiman Kerimov.

“Of course, I am motivated. Coming to Russia is a new challenge, and of course I’ll need some time to adapt, but I hope I’ll start playing in the near future.”

Neither Anzhi nor Real has disclosed the value of the transfer, though Spanish media have reported a sum of five million euros.

Diarra has signed a three-year deal at Anzhi with the option of a further year.