Atlético Madrid midfielder Diego Ribas, on loan from Wolfsburg through the end of the season, gave a press conference on Thursday during a club promotional event.
The 26-year-old addressed questions regarding some comments made by Werder Bremen sporting director Klaus Allofs.
Allofs told German paper Bild his club would be interested in signing their former idol, who scored 38 goals in 84 appearances with Bremen before Juventus snatched him up in a big-money deal back in 2009.
“We had a great time with Diego and he always behaved very professionally,” Allofs said.
“A transfer seems difficult at the moment, but we will definitely look into it if the opportunity arises.”
Diego, however, assured reporters at Atleti’s training facilities in Majadahonda that he doesn’t plan on going anywhere.
“Atlético is my present and my future,” he said.
“It’s a stage in which I am devoting my strength to help Atleti achieve their objectives. When the season ends we’ll see, but right now I am only thinking about Villarreal.
“I have a great deal of respect for this team.”
The Brazilian was then asked about his private chats with coach Diego Simeone on the training field.
“It’s so that we can get to know each other better,” Diego said.
“The most important thing is to have the intelligence to use our skills in a way that favours the club, that’s what he told me.
“To worry about doing my job well so that the result will be better.”
Asked about how he feels about Simeone, the playmaker responded: “Very good.”
He continued: “I’m in a slightly different position, but I don’t care. Right now, what’s important is to win.
“Simeone is doing some very important physical and psychological work.”
Do you think Diego could be on his way out in the summer, or do you think we’ll be able to sign him to a permanent deal? Should we keep him for the long term? Are you happy with his output, or has he disappointed you?