England international Toni Duggan insisted her desire to win the Spanish title was behind her move to Atletico Madrid this summer.
The 27-year-old, who impressed for his nation at this summer’s World Cup and helped them to a semi-final spot, joined Los Rojiblancos after leaving Barcelona.
Manchester United, newly promoted to the top-flight in England, had been favourites to capture the signing of Duggan this summer but she has instead moved to the Spanish capital.
Duggan, who won the Copa de la Reina and the Copa Catalunya during her time at Barcelona, previously represented Manchester City before her move to Spain.
“Home is where the heart is. It’s always going to be in my mind to go home, it’s always the easy option. My friends, family and boyfriend are at home,” Duggan explained in an interview with The Telegraph.
“But you’ve got to weigh up where you’re at in your life and your career. If I went back home now the likelihood of me going back abroad probably wouldn’t happen again. I’ve got to take this opportunity while it’s there.
“I’m really inspired to win the Spanish league, which is the reason I made the decision not to move back home. To be out here for two to four years, I want to come home with a league medal.”
