Umtiti: Barça move was a risk I had to take
Samuel Umtiti has acknowledged the challenge ahead with new club Barça as the Frenchman prepares for his debut season at the Camp Nou.
Speaking to French Football, the 22-year-old described how the Catalan club compare to other European clubs and why he chose to make the move from Olympique Lyonnais.
"I know that signing for Barça is a risk but I had to take it, it was the right time," he began, "When I knew I had the chance to sign, in my head it was already done and everything changed.
"Today, Barça are the best club in the world and on a higher level [compared to their competitors]. For me, there's no better way to continue my progression [as a player].
"I know I won't be in the same world [during my Barça career], with this club everything is multiplied by ten and even 100. I'll prepare and hope to be ready for this challenge, but I'm calm."
Umtiti was on the losing end this summer with France this summer as Les Bleus were defeated 1-0 by Portugal in the Euro 2016 final.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe were opponents that day and will be competing once more with Real Madrid against Barça for major honours next season, but Barça's latest signing is unfazed by the prospect.
"I have no desire for revenge but I want to beat them [when Barça play Real]," Umtiti concluded, "I lost once against them and I hope it won't happen again."
