Mario Gomez claims he turned down the chance to join Real Madrid in the summer.
The German international had become surplus to requirements for European champions Bayern Munich, who were willing to let him leave for €20million. Such a price, considering his excellent record for club and country, was sure to attract interest.
But whilst clubs from England looked elsewhere for attacking talent, Real coach Carlo Ancelotti was hoping to lure the 28-year-old to the Bernabeu. As tempting as this was for Gomez, however, he opted for Fiorentina after holding discussions with the Italian side.
“It’s true that Carlo Ancelotti wanted to sign me,” Gomez told Kicker. “I was honoured by their interest, because my family consists of Real Madrid fans. However, after holding talks with Fiorentina about their plans for the future, I knew joining Viola was for me.”
The Viola finished fourth in Serie A last season, and they have made another promising start this time round having won their opening two fixtures. The last of these, a 5-2 triumph at Genoa, saw Gomez explode onto the scene for his new club by hitting two goals.
