Former Steaua Bucharest star Nicolae Dica says he chose to join Catania because of the presence of coach Walter Zenga.

"The economic offer absolutely did not make the difference," said the player who caught the attention of a few clubs in Euro 2008.

"What was very important was the fact Zenga was my Coach at Steaua Bucharest and he requested me specifically for Catania. We got on very well and I'm glad to be working with him again.

"Serie A is a very tough League, so it is a new challenge for me. Our objective is to make Catania a team capable of competing with the more prestigious northern clubs."