Re-visit the first remarks from OM president Jacques-Henri Eyraud, sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta and new signing Kevin Strootman following the announcement that Strootman joined Les Olympiens from AS Roma.
"It's a great pleasure to welcome such a player: an experienced player at very high level. He's a mental force. He has all the psychological qualities to play for OM. He is a world-class player. He will bring us great experience from the biggest competitions. "
"The transfer window is not closed yet. We needed one player per position. The work has been done. I take this opportunity to salute the teamwork around this summer market. "
"He is a known and recognized player, able to play long and short. He is complementary to our other midfielders such as Luiz Gustavo, Maxime Lopez or Morgan Sanson. He is a lefty, a true leader. He supports the pressure very well. He has the character to wear the OM shirt."
"Everyone knows that OM is a very big club in France and Europe. I'm glad to be here. I had good discussions with the coach, the sportsing director and the president. The challenge is exciting. "
"Rudi Garcia is an important and special person for me. He first brought me to Rome and now has brought me to Marseilles. I thank him again. We spoke a lot together. I am happy to continue the adventure with him. "
"I had five great years in Rome, but it was time to move on. My departure has nothing to do with the new arrivals in Rome. "
"My arrival in Marseille was a surprise for many people, because everything went very fast. It's certainly because I had a good feeling with the leaders of Marseille. "
"With OM, I will not play the UEFA Champions League this season. But I do not think I will regress. OM is a club that has a lot of ambition. I am here to help the club qualify for the Champions League as quickly as possible. It's a really exciting challenge! "