© EuroFootball.com
London based defender Jose Antonio Reyes has denied reports that he told the English press he is unable to adapt to life in the English capital and would like to return to his homeland to wear the Madrid jersey.
"I don't know where those words came from, but I would like to say that I am very happy at Arsenal. I am enjoying the new stadium and the opportunity to help Arsenal fight for titles," Reyes said on the club's website.
On Sunday, English media quoted the Spaniard saying slightly different words: "I have always said that I want to return to Spain. I couldn't adapt to the English lifestyle. If Real wants to buy me - great. It would be an honor to play for this team. Now we just have to wait and see what happens. I have nothing against Arsenal - quite the opposite, it's a great club that has helped me a lot. The fans have also supported me a lot since I arrived here. But they don't know that I have to adapt to a new language and climate."
In January 2004, the defender moved to Arsenal for £10.5 million and during that time he played 110 matches for the Gunners, scoring 23 goals. However, just a year later, there were reports in the media that the player was not happy with life in London and wanted to return to Spain.
During a live radio show, thinking he was talking to a representative of Real, he even stated: "If I will not represent the Madrid team, I will have to continue playing with some bad people. I am sure that there are no such people in the Real squad."
Earlier, the new vice president of the Spanish runners-up, Ramon Calderon, expressed interest in acquiring not only J.A. Reyes, but also another Arsenal talent, Francesc Fabregas. However, negotiations for this player have so far been unsuccessful.
