In a press conference earlier today, Chairman Greg Griffin confirmed that Marcos Flores had rejected Adelaide United’s marquee offer, instead accepting an offer from Henan Jianye to play in the Chinese Super League and that the terms of the Argentinean’s departure had been agreed upon.
“It-s obviously a sad day for Adelaide. Marcos, in the time that he-s been here, he-s been extremely popular and he-s played very well,” Griffin said.
When Flores was asked if he wanted to make the move, the midfielder made it clear that it was the best decision for him stating, “Yes, I want to take this challenge in my life. In the business way this is the best option I have to take.” He went on to say, “I am happy with my decision, I have to help this team in China,” making it apparent that there was little the club could have done to keep him in Adelaide.
“It-s a big disappointment from perspective of the coach, planning your season, your future. The plan included Marcos Flores,” Coach Rini Coolen said.
As part of the marquee package, Coolen had put more leadership responsibilities and the chance to be captain on the table; however the Reds were not able to compete with the Chinese club in the race to retain his services.
“It-s very hard to compete with the money and conditions that are available in the Chinese Super League. All we can do is the best we can to keep players in South Australia,” Griffin said.
Coolen was surprised by the momentum the negotiations gathered over the past few days, but drew on his experiences in Europe.
“It-s a little bit more normal than here. Players coming and players going to a higher level. It-s not new to me but I am very disappointed to lose not only a player like Marcos Flores but also a person like Marcos Flores. But we have to accept and support his decision,” Coolen said.
“I leave in Adelaide my friends, I leave the best group in football I have met in my life,” Flores said.
“I want to play much better. I want to win the Championship.”
While Flores is eager to make impact for his new club and the fans of the Chinese Super League outfit, he was full of praise for United-s fans, “I don-t have the words to thank the supporters. The supporters of Adelaide United make me remember my passion for football.”
Griffin wished Flores a successful future beyond the Reds.
“We wish Marcos the best and trust that your football continues to go in the same direction you gave Adelaide.”
Griffin also went on to confirm that the club is now looking for a marquee player.
