Mamelodi Sundowns South American signing Marcelo Allende has revealed why he chose the Brazilians, despite having had two separate training stints with English giants Arsenal.
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Allende's arrival at Chloorkop was met with much fanfare given the amount of big-name clubs that were said to be interested in his services. Upon securing his signature, Sundowns co-coach Rulani Mokwena admitted that they had to fend off stern competition for the player's signature.
Now, addressing the media on Thursday at the club's Chloorkop base, Allende gave insight into why he joined Sundowns.
"No, because it's the best team in Africa. I want to win trophies and that is why I came here," he told journalists with the help of a translator.
Elaborating on his time with the Gunners, Allende said he did not play a competitive game during his time in North London, making it difficult to compare the level with what he has found in South Africa.
"Obviously, when I was there, as much as I trained with Arsenal, I never actually played a single game with them and that is something that happened in my career. With the decision to come this side it's difficult to differentiate between Arsenal and Sundowns because we all know that the Premier League has a high intensity and speed," he added.
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"It helps me a lot being this side because we know that globally African players are amongst the fastest, they are talented. So by being here, I can actually take my game to the next level."
So far, Allende has made five appearances since joining Sundowns and has scored two goals.
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