Portugal winger Simão announced on Wednesday that he is set to leave Atlético Madrid to join Beşiktaş when the transfer window opens in January.
The 31-year-old moves to Turkey in a deal worth €900,000 and joins compatriot Ricardo Quaresma at the Black Eagles.
Simão, who joined Atlético from Benfica in 2007, was given a standing ovation by Atletico fans after being substituted in the 1-0 Copa del Rey win over Espanyol on Wednesday at the Vicente Calderón.
"I don't think I have defrauded anyone," Simão told a press conference.
"It is difficult for me, I can hardly speak because since I came to Atlético I have grown and become a better professional.
"When I arrived I said I would do my best to win a title and I eventually ended up with two in Europe (the Europa League and the European Super Cup).
"I have to thank the fans, the support they have given me has been spectacular. I will continue to follow Atlético as a fan myself."
Atlético coach Quique Sánchez Flores added: "It's been an honour to have had him in my team.
"He has been a spectacular professional with influence both on and off the pitch."
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Beşiktaş-bound Simão bids farewell to Atlético Madrid supporters Photo: Marca |
The 31-year-old moves to Turkey in a deal worth €900,000 and joins compatriot Ricardo Quaresma at the Black Eagles.
Simão, who joined Atlético from Benfica in 2007, was given a standing ovation by Atletico fans after being substituted in the 1-0 Copa del Rey win over Espanyol on Wednesday at the Vicente Calderón.
"I don't think I have defrauded anyone," Simão told a press conference.
"It is difficult for me, I can hardly speak because since I came to Atlético I have grown and become a better professional.
"When I arrived I said I would do my best to win a title and I eventually ended up with two in Europe (the Europa League and the European Super Cup).
"I have to thank the fans, the support they have given me has been spectacular. I will continue to follow Atlético as a fan myself."
Atlético coach Quique Sánchez Flores added: "It's been an honour to have had him in my team.
"He has been a spectacular professional with influence both on and off the pitch."
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Related links:
Team
Personal
Also see: