Castillo: It is a dream to play in Spain

Nery Castillo has spoken of his delight after securing a transfer to Rayo Vallecano.

The attacking midfielder moved to Vallecano on a free transfer from Mexican outfit Pachuca on Tuesday.

Castillo has spent spells at the likes of Manchester City, Shakhtar Donetsk and OIympiakos during his career, but revealed that it had been a lifelong ambition to ply his trade in Spain.

“My intention was to return to Europe,” he told the club’s official website. “I had the chance to be in the best league in the world, which works very well and plays good football.

“I always wanted to play in Spain, it was a dream, it is the best league in the world for players and teams. It is football of play, not of strength and shock.”

Mexican Castillo is eager to play at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and feels that a strong season with Rayo will allow him to do that.

“We must all do a bit to make this succeed. Everyone has to contribute what they can. I like (to) win and be at the top,” he added.

“Most importantly, try to give 100 per cent in every match. I think that if you play well, you have the chance to be selected (for the World Cup).

“The decision to come to this team was not just made thinking about the selection. I think playing here I know I can do well and if I have the possibility of going to the World Cup then that’s better.”