'Scoring 20 or 30 goals': Morata reveals why he chose Leganes

Alvaro Morata has explained his decision to join Leganes despite having offers from clubs competing in European football. The 33-year-old striker joined Leganes on loan from Como and believes helping the club earn promotion would mean more to him at this stage of his career than individual goals or another Champions League campaign. Morata dismissed the suggestion that his decision was simply about being closer to home. 'I didn't come to Leganes just to play in Madrid. It's a decision based on a very exciting project, one that I like.' 'I've realized I'm not going to change my story. Instead of coming to Leganes, I had an offer from a coach I have a good relationship with, and the team was playing in European competition. Scoring 20 or 30 goals wasn't going to change my life, but getting promoted to La Liga with this team might.' Morata believes the challenge represents a different kind of motivation. 'It's a different challenge. The people who like me will always like me, and those who don't, no matter how many Golden Boots I win, will still dislike me.' He also explained why he considers the move a form of Champions League challenge in its own right. 'I've traded Leganes for a Champions League project, yes. But my Champions League is making a decision that I consider brave. I don't want it to seem like I'm here just to be at home. I'm here because of the project they have and because I hope to stay. And because they've shown me they want me here.' Morata said he has already enjoyed his first experiences with the club and feels happier after a difficult period in his career. 'I've had some difficult years, but now I'm happy and I think it shows.' The striker also reflected on his time at Como, saying: 'At Como I was much more important than people say,' while adding that he always tries to make his teammates better. Get all the latest La Liga & Spain news in our brand new app