Senegalese superstar Sadio Mane has spoken for the first time since it became clear he would be leaving Liverpool in this transfer window.
In what seemed to take the football world by surprise, the 30-year-old came to a decision ahead of the UEFA Champions League final in May that he would be departing the Reds ahead of next season.
Mane, it is believed, was seeking a significant increase to his salary in England in discussions over a new deal, with his current contract set to expire in 2023.
Unable to match his demands, however, Liverpool made the call to accept his request to be sold in this window, with the winger leaving Anfield having contributed to 168 goals in six years.
As his switch to Bayern Munich draws nearer, Mane has opened up about his enthusiasm at preparing to join the Bundesliga champions.
"When my agent first told me about Bayern's interest, I was immediately excited," he told Bild.
"I saw myself there right away. For me, it was the right club at the right time.
"It's one of the biggest clubs in the world and the team is always fighting for every title. So for me it was a very good idea and the right decision to come here.
"My agent told me that there were enquiries from other clubs. That's part of the business.
"But I got the feeling right away when Bayern presented their plan to me. I found myself in Bayern's plan more than anyone else."
It is believed Mane will complete his move to Bayern on Wednesday.