Arjen Robben says leaving Real Madrid for Bayern Munich was the best decision of his career, as the veteran forward prepares for the 2018-19 Bundesliga season to get underway.
Robben, 34, retired from international duty last year and had been considering his future at club level before agreeing a one-year extension to remain at Allianz Arena.
Speaking to Bayern's website, the Dutchman was asked if, when he signed for the club in 2009, he expected to enjoy such a long and productive stay in Germany.
"No, I don't think so – but then again, yes," he replied.
"I'm always a realist, and I know the world of football is fast-moving. It could have been different. After my debut as a pro for Groningen I was at Eindhoven for two years. It was a big step for me in the Netherlands: to leave home at the age of 18.
"I went abroad when I was 20, three years at Chelsea, a big club. Then two years at Madrid. Then Bayern approached me and I made the decision.
"I was sceptical at the beginning, I didn't know whether it was the right decision. I can now say: it was the best decision in my career."
