Neuer: Give Martinez time to adapt

Posted Monday, September 10, 2012 by ESPNSTAR.com

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer believes new signing Javi Martinez needs time to adapt to the Bundesliga, and asked fans to be patient with the Spain international.

Martinez joined Neuer at Bayern Munich from Spanish outfit Athletic Bilbao to much fanfare, with the Spain international representing the biggest coup of the summer transfer window for the Bavarian club.

However, Neuer has moved to temper the excitement surrounding Martinez's arrival at the club, and warned that the 24-year-old midfielder would need some time to settle down in the country and familiarise himself to the league before being able to showcase his true quality.

Speaking to Spox, the German international said: "He has to adapt to his new surroundings a bit. The Spanish league is different to the Bundesliga.

"That's why people cannot expect too much from him right away.
"He will do a good job eventually, though.

"He's a very open guy and the good thing is that he speaks English pretty well for a Spaniard."

Having arrived at the Bavarian club for a Bundesliga record fee of €40 million, Martinez might feel an added weight of expectations to perform well for the club but Neuer reckons the large price tag will not unduly affect the former Bilbao player.

"Will his hefty price tag weigh down on him? You don't think about money when you step on to the pitch," Neuer added.

Martinez came off the bench to make his debut for Die Roten 6-1 victory against Stuttgart last Sunday, and will have an opportunity to impress again when Bayern Munich host FC Mainz in their next Bundesliga fixture.