Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez provided a fantastic assist for Bayer Leverkusen’s opening goal in their 3-1 friendly victory over Italian club Fiorentina. Chicharito has been the subject of intense transfer speculation over the last week, the Mexican striker adding fuel to the flames by admitting that he could still move on from Leverkusen this transfer window.
However, Chicharito’s recent comments should certainly not be construed as a player wanting away from his club — the 28-year-old is simply well aware of the unpredictability of a career in football. If his performance against Fiorentina is anything to go by, the Mexican striker looks perfectly happy with Leverkusen.
Speaking at Leverkusen’s Austrian training camp, Chicharito said: “In the last two summers I was transferred on the last day, so you never know. I expected to stay in Madrid and in Manchester, but then I ended up here in Leverkusen.
“But now I’m happy to be part of this fantastic team. We’re hungry and want to achieve a lot. I don’t know if the rumors surrounding me are true or not. However, it motivates me that others want my services.”
Chicharito is in high demand following his tally of 17 Bundesliga goals in 28 matches for Leverkusen. After being primarily used off the bench in Manchester and Madrid, Chicharito has flourished in a starting role in Germany.
“I’m a professional,” explained Chicharito. “I’m wearing the Leverkusen shirt and I’m enjoying my stay here in Austria. You can never say what happens in the future. Right now I’m happy, I’m glad to be here.”
Today marked Leverkusen’s final friendly match of the preseason. They open their campaign on August 21st in the German Cup. They follow that game with their first of the Bundesliga, against Gladbach on August 27th.
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