Barcelona striker Javier Saviola confirmed his
much-expected departure from the deposed Spanish champions on
Monday.
However, the diminutive Argentinian refused to confirm press
reports that he had agreed to join Barca's arch-rivals Real Madrid,
who pipped the Nou Camp outfit to the Spanish title on
Sunday.
"I've taken the decision to leave the club and start a new stage,"
said the 25-year-old forward at a press conference on Monday.
"I've had many experiences here and made some great friends. I've
had the support, the affection and the unconditional appreciation
of the fans."
However, the Latin American was less forthcoming about his next
destination despite widespread reports that he will move to Real
when his contract with the Catalan giants expires at the end of the
month.
Saviola said: "I still haven't decided where I'll play next season.
I haven't signed anything. I'll take a decision this week or the
following one. I was waiting for the end of the league."
However, he went on to say that he would not consider a move to
Real to be a betrayal of Barca.
"I wouldn't betray people if I did because I'm a professional," he
said. "I wouldn't do it out of resentment nor to hurt people, which
is the last thing I would do."
