Juande says he is thrilled to have put pen-to-paper with Adelaide United after signing until the end of the A-League 2020/21 season.
The 34-year-old brings plenty of experience and quality to his new surroundings.
Juande accumulated over 60 appearances for his boyhood club, Real Betis and later enjoyed spells with the likes of Granada and then Serie B outfit Spezia for three years.
Juande thanked the Club for making the move transpire and said Director of Football, Bruce Djite, was always in contact during his two weeks of quarantine.
The Spaniard, who most recently had a stint in the Indian Super League, said he feels great and is available for Sunday, but admitted the decision lies in the hands of Head Coach, Carl Veart.
“I feel good, after the quarantine and after one month without competition it’s normal that I need a couple of trainings,” Juande said to the media at his official unveiling.
“But I feel good, better than the last time when I arrived in India and passed the quarantine, I feel better because also the Club gave me all the facilities to train in the (hotel) room.”
The defensive midfielder had previously spoken with long-time friend and current Reds defender, Javi López, about Adelaide and heard good things.
And those positive discussions were vindicated by Juande himself as he trained with his teammates for the first time on Friday.
“Before I came here I talked with Javi (López) because he’s a very good friend when we were young,” he explained.
“He spoke about the change room very, very well but when I met my new teammates, the staff and the coach my impression is better.
“I find a very good change room with humble players and the position in the table is not only for one day.
“I see a very good team, a very hard team, a strong team.”
Juande stated he is a team player, declaring that he will help the team in any capacity required.
“This is the best in football when you arrive in the change room all together fighting for the same goal,” he said.
“But for me when I sign with one club, I’m not happy when I play and win. I’m happy when the team win – I’m a team player.
“So of course I try to train hard and try and get my position, but if not I try to help whichever player – this is my mentality.”
During his two years with Perth Glory, Juande revealed that he personally found Adelaide one of his toughest opponents.
“I say every time when I play against Adelaide for me it’s a hard team because every player runs 90 minutes,” he said.
“It’s very difficult when you play against this type of opponent. Now I play in this team so it’s better for me.”
Match details:
Sunday, 28 March vs Sydney FC
A-League 2020/21 – Matchweek 14
Kick-off 5.40pm ACDT
Gates open 4.30pm ACDT
Venue: Coopers Stadium
Broadcast: Fox Sports
Stream: Kayo Sports, MyFootball Live App
