French defender Samuel Umtiti has been roped in by European giants Barcelona for a €25 million move from Lyon. As per reports, it is learnt that the 22-year-old became emotional and ended up in tears after his move to the Catalan giants was confirmed. Umtiti was an influential figure in Olympique Lyon’s defence unit from 2011 to 2016. The star-studded Spanish club had their eye on the French star for quite some time, but his performance in the recently concluded European Championships made it obvious that he is ready to take the next step in his career.
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Goal.com quoted the French defender as saying, "I must thank all the people who have made this move possible,"
"When I knew I had the possibility to come to Barca it really touched me, I cried a little even though I tried to hide my emotions. It has been a dream of mine - since childhood I wanted to come here. I'm very happy and excited to be here, I can't wait to play alongside these great players. I came here to progress and learn a lot with players who have more experience than me.”
"I'm already learning Catalan, but I don't speak it very well at the moment. I have come to the best club in the world and I hope to win everything here", the new Barcelona star added.
Umtiti was born in the Cameroonian city of Yaounde. The football federation of Cameroon, along with legend Roger Milla, met his advisors but were unable to convince Umtiti to play for the African side. He was uncapped at senior level until French manager Didier Deschamps called him up to represent the France national team in Euro 2016. Umtiti made his senior debut on 3 July against Iceland in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 at the Stade de France.
Also read: 5 things you probably didn't know about Barcelona's new signing Samuel Umtiti
Umtiti also admitted that his standards are quite high and that he wants to work hard to prove he has the quality to help his new club, "My standards are very high, I'm a player and competitor and want to play. I will work hard and show that I have the quality to help the club, I know there are good players in my position. I am grateful for this chance, I hope to adapt and settle in quickly."
Barcelona will kick-off their new La Liga season against Real Betis in August.
