Didier Drogba has insisted that moving to China presents him with the challenge he needs at this stage of his career.

 

The 34-year-old recently signed for Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua after ending an eight-year association with Chelsea last month.

 

Drogba signed off his Chelsea career in style, helping the Blues to win both the FA Cup and the Champions League in the 2011/12 campaign.

 

However, a lucrative contract at the Blue Devil, combined with the challenge football on another continent presents, tempted Drogba east.

 

And he has explained he has not moved to China for an easy money-filled ride.

 

"It was a professional decision based upon the past eight years at Chelsea and how I’ve done in Europe, including winning the Champions League", said the Ivorian.

 

"It was, I think, the right time to go to another continent because, as I have already indicated, I like travelling, I like to learn and see different cultures.

 

"It is a good experience for me.

 

"It is a challenge. People say that Chinese football is not as good, but they are ambitious."

 

Drogba also explained that David Beckham is someone he looked to when making his choice.

 

"David Beckham is an example for me. People said the same about his move to America, that it was for publicity for the MLS. Why am I going? It is good for Chinese football and I want to contribute."

 

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