Alexis Sanchez was unveiled as an Udinese player at the Bluenergy Stadium auditorium on Wednesday, fielding questions from journalists about his hopes and expectations for the coming season.
Joining the Chilean star at the media conference was Udinese managing director Franco Collavino, technical director Gokhan Inler and group technical director Gianluca Nani.
Here's what they had to say...
Collavino: “Today is a big day as it marks the return of Alexis Sanchez to Udinese. But first I'd like to thank the huge number of fans – over 4000 people – who attended last night's event in the centre of Udine. The enthusiasm is tremendous and it's incredibly motivating for us.
“Sanchez's presentation today is an emotional occasion. He's one of the greatest successes of our scouting system and now we've come full circle. His return is a present from the Pozzo family to the fans. We want to make them happy. We're ready for the start of a new chapter. Welcome back, Nino!”
Nani: “I want to thank Gino and the Pozzo family because they've given us a fantastic player. For the city of Udine, it's a dream come true. I also want to thank Alexis for coming home.”
Inler: “Welcome back, Alexis. I'm delighted because we played together and had some memorable seasons at Udinese. I'm proud that he's come back. I'd also like to thank the Pozzo family, Collavino and Nani because it's never easy to sign big stars like this. I know Alexis is really up for it – I am too. We're ready to get started.”
Sanchez: “I want to thank everyone who works for the club. It was a wonderful occasion in the city centre last night. Lots of things have changed, starting with the stadium.
"I'm ready to get going. I feel great and I think I can do a lot for the team but it's up to the coach.
“I'm the same Sanchez I was 13 years ago. Football has changed a lot but I manage my energy differently now. I had several offers but I chose Udinese because I feel at home here. I'm happy and I wanted to be somewhere that makes me happy so it was the right time to come home.
“I support Udinese, Chile and my family.
“You have to stay here at least a year to get to know the people of Friuli – wonderful places and wonderful people. Coming back to Udine and playing in a top league is important for me to do well and try to play for my national team.”
“I love football and I'm focused on Udinese. I might return to Chile one day but for now my thoughts are only on Udinese.
“I'm very happy that I joined Inter. I enjoyed my time there and I want to thank everyone.
“I like fighting and winning. I've seen how the other players train and I see a lot of desire and commitment. I hope that together we can do something great for all of Friuli.
“I have an excellent relationship with [Antonio] Di Natale. We speak every day.
“I have a lot of belief in the team and the staff. I've come here to achieve something by bringing a bit of experience. I decided to say yes to Udinese in my own interests. Udinese fought hard to get me so I had no doubts about coming back.
“I'm doing two training sessions a day and the lads have really bought into the coach's ideas.
“I think I can do a good job behind the centre forward but regardless of my position I just want to help the team. I like playing with [Florian] Thauvin. He understands the game and it's a pleasure to play alongside him.”