SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Gabi Fernandez, Atletico de Madrid's midfielder and captain:

(On why he has decided to leave for Qatar this year after receiving other offers in the past)

"It's mainly for two reasons. First, I'll be 35 years old in a week. I probably won't have another opportunity. Second and most important for me, twice (I received offers) before, I wouldn't have left (the club) before winning, I would have left without a title. After having lost two very important finals (of the Champions League) and I didn't want to leave in this way. So the moment to leave was this one."

SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Gabi Fernandez, Atletico de Madrid's midfielder and captain:

(On how player Xavi Hernández, who also plays in the Al-Sadd of Qatar, convinced him to join the team)

"The whole experience. He spoke very well about the city, the club, a very serious club that treats its players very well. Being there will allow me to learn, to prepare for a future that will be linked to other circumstances in my life, to other positions and jobs. So, well, I'm going there to play football, to learn, but mainly to start preparing for what's to come."

SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Jorge Resurrección known as 'Koke', Atletico de Madrid's midfielder:
(Visibly moved)

"You are and you will be like an older brother. You need to prepare because all Atletico supporters will be waiting for you, you know that, you better study and get ready, because you're going to be the next coach of Atletico de Madrid. I tell you that right now. Because Atletico will need you today and forever. Only that my brother."