Madrid: An emotional Nuri Sahin announced his departure from Borussia Dortmund on Monday, with Real Madrid his destination this summer.
"I am very proud to take this step," he told reporters at a press conference. "It is very difficult. I am a Borussian and will always remain a Borussian.
"I will miss Dortmund, I will miss the Bundesliga and I will miss my home country. I want to thank all who supported me on my way."
He also gave special praise to his "great coach," Jurgen Klopp, but looking forward the 22-year-old admitted he feels that the move to Madrid is necessary for his development as a player.
"Jose Mourinho will bring me one step further," he said, adding that discussions with Madrid star and former Werder Bremen playmaker Mesut Ozil helped him make his decision.
Sahin then became quite emotional as he recalled his farewell to his team-mates.
"Saying goodbye to my team was very hard for me. They're in my heart and the farewell was very emotional. Not so many clubs were an option for me, because Dortmund is so precious.
"Everybody in this team has given everything for the other. This is an outstanding team that won a great title."
However, he denied allegations that the team had pledged to stay together. Instead, they all agreed that if any player were to receive a great offer, he would leave with no hard feelings.
"Money hasn't played any role in this move," he added. "I've taken this decision only because of sporting reasons. I'm not one to lie. The fans knew how I would decide."
During the press conference, the move was confirmed on Real Madrid's official website. The Spanish club revealed that the player had signed a six-year contract after his estimated €10 million buy-out clause was met.
Sahin leaves Dortmund after 11 years of service, and he will join former Bundesliga stars Ozil and Sami Khedira at the Primera Division giants.
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