Barca chance has come a little late - Mathieu

The defender was unveiled at Camp Nou on Thursday and revealed that Luis Enrique has had the move in mind for several weeks

Jeremy Mathieu revealed that he feels his move to Barcelona is a "reward" for his whole career, although that it has come a few years later than he might have wished.

The 30-year-old has signed a four-year deal with the option of an additional season, with Valencia reluctantly agreeing to sell one of their prized assets for €20 million.

"Joining Barca is a reward for my whole career," he told the media at his unveiling. "I worked very hard to get here. The chance comes maybe a bit late, but I'll enjoy it.

"I did everything to join Barcelona, it's a joy to be here. I'm very motivated, I've come here purely to win trophies."

Mathieu spoke with excitement about the next phase of his career and revealed he had spoken to former Valencia team-mate Alba and new boss Luis Enrique even before the transfer was agreed.

"Jordi Alba insisted that I join," he told reporters. "He said it's a great club and that I would feel good here.

"I spoke to Luis Enrique a month ago - he wants me to play as a centre-back and showed that he really believes in me.

"I like Barcelona's game because I like to play football. Just kicking the ball away is not really my thing."

Mathieu will wear the No. 24 shirt at Camp Nou and battle it out for a place alongside Gerard Pique at the heart of the back four, though he can also be used on the left of the defence.

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