When the approach from Bayern came, Álvaro Odriozola immediately got in touch with former FCB players to ask about the German record champions. "Xabi Alonso is a good friend of mine, he told me a lot of good things about Bayern and the city," revealed the 24-year-old new signing during his first press conference at Säbener Straße.
The Spanish right-back has come to Bayern via Real Sociedad and Real Madrid - we get to know him a bit more closely 👇🏻:
He heard similar from Toni Kroos and James Rodríguez, with whom he's played at parent club Real Madrid – and that made it an easy decision for Odriozola. "I have no doubts about this move," said the full-back. "It's a privilege to play for such a big club like FC Bayern and to wear the shirt."
Full of enthusiasm on first day
It's been a busy 24 hours since his arrival in Munich: medical on Tuesday evening, contract signing on Wednesday morning, training at midday and then his first appearance in front of the media. And the wide man has been thoroughly impressed by what he's seen. "My first impression of the team and the club is excelllent. I'm very happy, it couldn't have gone better," praised the Spain international.
Chatting to his new teammates in training: Philippe Coutinho (left) and compatriot Thiago (right) both speak Spanish.
The fact that players such as Thiago and Lucas Hernández speak Spanish has helped the new arrival to settle in, and so he can't wait for his debut. "I'm already thinking about the game against Schalke and I'd love to be involved. I'm ready and I don't want to lose any time," said the eager right-back.
Immediate reinforcement
Sporting director Hasan Salihamidžić, who sat alongside Odriozola in the press room, will have been pleased to hear those words. He too is hoping to see Bayern's new No. 2 in action soon. "Álvaro is in top shape, which is very important. That means he can play from the start and add his capabilities," said Salihamidžić.
You can watch the press conference with Álvaro Odriozola and Hasan Salihamidžić in full 👇
The Spaniard backed up those comments in training, throwing himself into the session. He even came first in the mini tournament in a team with Serge Gnabry, Corentin Tolisso, Joshua Kimmich, David Alaba, Leon Dajaku, Joshua Zirkzee and Sven Ulreich. Odriozola knows what it takes at Bayern. "The expectations here are very high! I want to always give 100 per cent."
Making a good impression: Álvaro Odriozola celebrates victory in the mini tournament with his teammates.
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