Designated player Juninho is loving life with the New York Red Bulls after moving to the Big Apple from Brazil in the off season.
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The decorated midfielder boasts a collection of winner's medals following successful stints in his native Brazil, France and the middle-east, and was widely expected to end his career in his homeland after a decade abroad.
But having made the surprise move to North America from his home club Vasco da Gama on a one-year deal, the 38-year-old admitted he was ready for one last challenge in the MLS after former Lyon boss Gerard Houllier had contacted him.
"I spent ten years outside Brazil, and then went back to Vasco da Gama. I didn't expect to have the opportunity to work for MLS," Juninho said through an interpreter. "I went back to Brazil, played a year-and-a-half, and while I was in Brazil, Gerard Houllier, who was my coach twice, saw me play.
"He got in touch with my agent and proposed a two-year contract. They invited me to come here in December to get to know the team. I began my career in South America, but I expect to finish my career here in the United States. When the opportunity arose, I thought it was a great opportunity."
Juninho has won titles with every team he has played for in his career, and admitted he was keen for the trend to continue after starting his last adventure at the Red Bull Arena.
"I'm beginning the 20th year of my career, and I want to do now the same as I've done in my first 19, which is to do my very best to help the teams I played for win titles,'' the dead-ball specialist continued.
"I've had a very successful career, and I expect that to continue with the Red Bulls as well."
Juninho is likely to debut for the Red Bulls in their season-opener against Portland Timbers this weekend, as he hopes to help the New York club win their first major championship.
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