Valencia excited for Boca Juniors challenge, aims to adapt quickly

Ecuadorian forward Enner Valencia is set to join Boca Juniors, expressing his enthusiasm and readiness for the challenge ahead.

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I am very excited about my arrival at Boca. It is a decision we made with my family and we are very happy.

"I am very excited about my arrival at Boca. It is a decision we made with my family and we are very happy," Valencia told reporters in his home country before traveling to Buenos Aires. The 36-year-old forward acknowledged that he had to turn down other offers, including one that was "closer to my heart," but the prestige of Boca Juniors was a deciding factor.

Valencia, Ecuador's all-time leading scorer, stated his intention to adapt as quickly as possible to contribute to the team. He also revealed that conversations with Boca's president, Juan Román Riquelme, have motivated him. "Imagine what Riquelme meant for football and now as a director. For him to speak so highly of me, to offer words of encouragement: it is very important to me," he said. Valencia feels a significant responsibility stemming from these discussions, hoping to meet expectations both physically and mentally.

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If being Boca, there are not many things to add. I had another proposal that, perhaps, was closer to my heart and turning it down hurt me a lot.

Valencia's representative, Gonzalo Vargas, described the move to Boca as a "very important challenge" for the player at this stage of his career. Vargas noted that while Valencia had more lucrative offers from Mexico, the MLS, and Saudi Arabia, Boca's appeal was undeniable. He also confirmed that negotiations with Riquelme were brief and direct, with an agreement reached within 48 hours.

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Try to adapt as quickly as possible to try to help the team along the path it is currently on.

Valencia concluded by addressing Boca fans, promising to give his all to achieve the championships they aim for. He also mentioned that the contract duration is still being finalized.

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Imagine what Riquelme meant for football and now as a director. For him to speak so highly of me, to offer words of encouragement: it is very important to me.