Raul happy with Al Sadd decision

Former Real Madrid and Schalke striker Raul has declared that he is happy to have signed for Al Sadd.

The 34-year-old frontman has joined the Qatari side on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract with Schalke, where he spent the last two seasons.

“Negotiations with Al Sadd started three months ago,” Raul said.

“I felt the seriousness of the officials, and my wife’s good impression of Doha after visiting it a month ago made me accept the offer.

“My wife and I feel that we have taken the right decision. We are happy to make a new adventure, especially after the warm reception here.”

Questioned about his chances making Spain’s squad for Euro 2012, Raul said it would be a dream to play in Poland and Ukraine, but stressed the decision is in the hands of coach Vicente del Bosque.

The Spaniard, who revealed that Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola and Malaga director Fernando Hierro played a role in his decision, said he hopes to help develop football in Qatar as the country prepares to host the World Cup in 2022.

He also dismissed reports he had rejected offers from UAE clubs, stating that when his agent was approached by an Emirati businessman, he had already chosen to further his career in Qatar.