Saúl Ñíguez has launched a scathing attack on Arsenal director of football Andrea Berta, accusing him of being dishonest during his exit from Atletico Madrid.
[Cadena SER reports] the Spanish midfielder, who left Atletico this summer after 12 years to join Flamengo, revealed he was hurt by Berta’s behaviour and claimed to have “seen proof” that he lied.
“I was a homegrown player and always tried to help the club,” Saúl said. “I’ve lowered my salary when Atletico asked me to, I’ve received promissory notes when they asked. I’ve always said yes to everything.”
“He (Berta) wasn’t completely honest with me; I’ve even seen proof. Then he told me he wasn’t, but I’ve seen proof. I told him not to lie to me. All of that hurt me.”
While Saúl admitted he parted ways amicably with Diego Simeone, who told him he was no longer part of his plans, his relationship with Berta has soured.
“If he had done things right with me, he would have sat down with me, we would have spoken face to face,” he added. “We would have found a solution.”
The midfielder’s comments shed light on lingering tensions from his long spell at Atletico, now reignited by Berta’s new role at Arsenal.
READ MORE:
- Raphinha admits he nearly left Barcelona before Hansi Flick convinced him to stay
- Zinedine Zidane calls Real Madrid’s 2017 Champions League final ‘perfection’ as he hints at return to coaching
- ‘Play’ Barcelona unveil special El Clasico kit featuring Ed Sheeran’s new album logo
