Manuel Iturra first wore his new jersey. After four seasons in Spain, the Chilean will change scenery and starting from this season he will defend Udinese in Italy, where he was presented on Monday.
The University of Chile graduate will be wearing his fifth jersey in Europe after stints in União Leiria in Portugal, and Real Murcia, Malaga, and Granada in Spain. At the same time, he joins a long list of Chileans who have once worn the Friuli's club jersey.
In his first words, Colocho commented, "I didn't think twice about coming to Udinese. I need challenges and this is an opportunity to grow. I feel good and I am happy to be here. It is a step forward in my career."
When asked about a possible call-up to the Chilean national team, the midfielder confessed that he does not see it as feasible. "Serie A is closely followed in Chile, it can be a better showcase for me to be seen. I don't have illusions of entering the current national team squad. I think it is very difficult to have a place at the moment with so many strong players. I have had the best moments of my career recently and I have not been called up, so I doubt that anything can change now."
The 31-year-old player also highlighted where he likes to play. "I have played in many positions, but I prefer in the center of the field, in front of the defense. I don't know my teammates well, but I see many emerging players along with others of high quality."
Finally, Iturra explained why he chose the number 16 jersey. "I chose it because it is the number that has accompanied me throughout my career and luckily it was available."