Kevin Gameiro: I rejected Barcelona to join Atletico Madrid

Gameiro ended heavy speculation linking him with Barca when he joined Atleti for €37m last week, and the former Sevilla striker admits the prospect of being La Blaugrana’s fourth-choice attacker was less appealing to him than staying in Andalusia.

“I would’ve only got a few minutes [at Barca],” he told L’Equipe.

“[Simeone] told me he was looking for a player like me, who was able to offer something in defence and attack and also be a goalscorer. Above all, [it had to be] someone who could blend in with the collective.

“In fact, it was more likely that I’d stay at Sevilla than go to Barcelona.

“I knew that if I went to Barcelona, my situation would’ve been the fourth attacker. I think my playing time would’ve been reduced.

“[Atleti] were, above all, a sporting option. My agents informed me of more attractive offers financially, but I wanted to stay in Spain.

“I feel very good here and so do my family, plus La Liga is one of the best competitions [in the world].

“Only Spanish teams have won European trophies in the last three years.”

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