Real Madrid

Sergio Vidal gave a press conference after his presentation as Real Madfrid's latest basketball signing.

Why did you decide to sign for Real Madrid?
I wish to thank Real Madrid for the chance they've given me and for letting me be part of this great project. I am very excited about being at this club. I remember I was relaxing at home when I got their call. Negotiations soon followed. I always wanted to sign; I never had doubts. This was too good to say no to. We negotiated with my previous club and we reached a satisfactory decision. There is nothing more exciting than this project.

It must be special for you to arrive with Prigioni...
There's no doubt about that. Every change is followed by an adaptation process and having Prigiion and Travis Hansen here will make things easier. Jorge Garbajosa, Felipe Reyes and Sergi Llull are also men with whom I've either played on Spain's youth teams or faced in the past. I have many friends on the team, which will hasten my adaptation.

Will it be a problem for the team to have seven new players?
It's easier when you've had the same team-mates for several years; playing becomes rather automatic. We are all nevertheless very experienced and good enough to blend quickly.

How do you feel from the plantar fasciitis you suffered from at the end of the season?
I feel great. I'm nearly 100% fit. Everything will be over in a few days.

Will your Euroleague experience help the team reach the Final Four?
My experience won't make the team reach that stage; it will be just one piece in the puzzle. Basketball is a team sport. we all have to do our best to achieve our common goals.

Are you especially excited about playing with someone in particular?
The rest of the squad is made up of great players. I know many of them and that makes me very happy. I couldn't choose...

What do you want to win with Real Madrid?
I want to win it all. I've always wanted that. The only title I lack is the Euroleague, but I won't give up the rest.

Have you spoken to Messina yet?
Yes, I have. We talked about his vision of the sport. He told me he expects to use my versatility. I can play in several positions and do a bit of everything depending on the situation. I am not a selfish player. I like to win and I will do whatever the coach says.

Have you spoken to some of your new team-mates yet?
I spoke to Prigioni, who is currently playing for his national team. We are very excited about still playing together after a six-year partnership in Vitoria. We are very good friends, which makes us even happier.