Fenerbahce are as big as Chelsea or Liverpool
RAUL MEIRELES declared Fenerbahce to be as big as Chelsea and Liverpool after completing his move to the Turkish giants.
Meireles became the latest summer departure from Stamford Bridge, with the Portugal midfielder signing a four-year deal to ply his trade in Istanbul.
And the former Liverpool star immediately insisted he had not taken a step down in his career.
“I can’t wait to get started – Fenerbahce is as big a club as Chelsea, Liverpool and Porto,” said Meireles.
And he revealed former Anfield team-mate Dirk Kuyt had played a part in the pair being reunited in Turkey.
“I had a great season playing at Liverpool with Kuyt. He told me about Fenerbahce and encouraged me to move.
“I have friends playing in Turkey and I’m excited about the prospect of playing here.”
Trophies
The 29-year-old, who cost around £8million just a year after joining Chelsea for £12m, added: “Fenerbahce are a big club, everybody knows their history.
“I can promise the fans that I will give it my all.
“My goal here is to win trophies.”
Gianfranco Zola reckons Chelsea will be title contenders with Eden Hazard in the team.
“Chelsea and the two Manchester clubs can win the title,” said Zola.
“Hazard has integrated well into Chelsea’s team, people are already comparing him to myself.”
Zola is now at Watford and explained why he returned to management.
He added: “I joined for two reasons: England and the project. My family wanted to come here and I like the ideas of owner Giampaolo Pozzo.”