In an exclusive interview for OM's media, Hatem Ben Arfa tells us of his joy to have signed at OM. "Whatever happens, I’m going to stay with OM and I won’t be going back to Lyon" he explains.
Hatem, today you are in training at the Commanderie, there are some problems with your old club, Lyon, concerning you transfer. What is your position on the subject?
I’ve signed with Olympique de Marseille and I’m very happy to be here. My position is very clear : I know that, whatever happens, I’m going to stay with OM and I won’t be going back to Lyon. Whatever is being said, I’m here.
How are you dealing with all of it?
I’m dealing with it very well. I know that OM and myself, have the same idea and we won’t be changing it. We’ve signed a contract, end of story.
What are your first impressions of Marseille and the Commanderie ?
I’ve already been able to visit the city a little. It’s hot and I like that. It’s a beautiful city, the training ground is great and I can’t wait to get into my first training session to speed up my integration to the group. I can’t wait to meet them.
Last season you made a big impression on the Vélodrome when you came on during the OM-Lyon game, what kind of welcome are you expecting from the public?
I just hope that I’ll be helped to adapt to the city so that I feel at home as quickly as possible. There will be a period of adaptation but once that is over everything will be fine.
What do you think you can bring to OM?
The squad, the coach and the club all have great ambitions. I hope to bring my skills to that and help the club win as many trophies as possible. But, that will come from the whole team working for it.
Do you think that OM can seriously contend with Lyon and Bordeaux in the race for a European spot or why not the title?
I came here to win the title and I really thinnk we can be contenders.
In August you will be playing in the preliminary round of the Champions League, a competition that you know well…
I know that there will be two or three good teams that it would be good to avoid in the preliminary round. Whatever happens, we’ll have to win if we want to play in the Champions League which is an extraordinary competition. For the public, for everyone, it’s a great adventure to live. I really hope that we will manage to qualify.
Just to finish off, what made you make up your mind to choose OM?
It’s a club that all players dream about playing for, for the public, for all the warmth that surrounds this club. It’s a choice that was made with my heart. What player wouldn’t want to play here? It’s a great experience that I’m getting ready to live and I’m glad that I chose OM.
