In a brief but emotional ceremony, Santos Laguna from Torreon presented their new reinforcements yesterday, including Ecuadorian forward Ayrton Preciado.
The Corona Stadium was the venue for the event where the Mexican team, in front of a group of fans and club season ticket holders, showcased the players who arrived to try to reclaim the Mexican soccer title.
Six players paraded in front of the fans, with Preciado being one of the most applauded.
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The Ecuadorian player was part of the "warrior ritual," in which club season ticket holders presented him with the team's jersey and flag. Preciado will wear number 18, as he did at Emelec.
"I am very happy to join such an important club, I like the city (Torreon) where I have been for a few days (since Thursday)," said the attacker.
"I like that the people support the team a lot, and that is very important to me. I know which team I am joining, I know that they are the current champions, and this is a very important responsibility for me. I will give my best in every game so that the fans are happy," added the Esmeraldas-born footballer.
Preciado was transferred permanently from Emelec for an approximate cost of $8 million, as reported by the Mexican press.
"It was a good proposal. I liked Mexican soccer, it is very important to me to make the leap, as my aspiration is to play in Europe," said the player, a few days ago, when his transfer to Mexico was made official.
After the presentation, Preciado addressed the group of fans who attended the event to sign autographs and take photos. He then had a conversation with coach Robert Dante Siboldi and joined the practices with the rest of his teammates.
This will be Preciado's third international experience, having previously played for Trofense and Leixões, both in Portugal.
The 24-year-old footballer's goal is for this opportunity in Mexican soccer to help him secure a permanent place in the national football team. (D)