Thursday, 6th September, 2012
Axel Witsel has struck a positive note speaking about his move to Zenit St. Petersburg.
The Belgian midfielder arrived at the Russian champions after they activated his €40M release clause with Benfica, landing on the same day as Zenit also confirmed a big money deal for FC Porto striker Hulk.
Luciano Spalletti’s men are thought to have splashed out at least €80M to buy the two players and Witsel especially is excited about the challenge which is waiting for him in Russia.
"I want to adapt as quickly as possible to life in St. Petersburg", said the 23-year-old, who had been courted by the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Real Madrid.
"I’m going to learn Russian", he added.
"This is a real adventure", concluded Witsel.
Zenit will be hoping for big things from the lively midfielder, who is set to earn in excess of €3M per year with the Russian champions.
Witsel only enjoyed one year at the Estadio da Luz with Benfica, having joined the Portuguese giants last summer from Belgian side Standard Liege.
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