Barcelona loanee Marlon excited by 'golden opportunity'

Rio de Janeiro, July 8 (IANS) Brazilian center-back Marlon Santos has vowed to make the most of his chances after securing a dream one-year loan deal with Barcelona football club.

The 20-year-old arrived in the Catalan capital on Thursday evening and is expected to begin training with his new teammates next week, reports Xinhua.

"I'm very happy and motivated," Marlon told the Globoesporte news portal. I hope to develop both as a footballer and a person. I want to adapt as quickly as possible so that I can make the most of my opportunity. It's a golden opportunity."

Under terms struck with Brazilian club Fluminense, Barcelona will have the option of contracting the defender on a permanent deal next June.

Marlon was used sparingly by Fluminense this season and he knows he will need to bide his time with Barcelona B before pushing for a first-team berth.

The thought of playing alongside fellow Brazilians Neymar, Rafinha, Adriano and Douglas has provided even more motivation.

"I haven't spoken to Neymar yet, or any of the other Brazilians there," Marlon said.

"But Neymar is a reference for everybody. Rafinha is another player who has improved a lot. They are exceptional players. I hope to be playing with them as soon as possible, but I know that I need to be patient," he added.

--IANS

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