Barcelona defender Jeremy Mathieu has admitted surprise over his move from Valencia.
Barca agreed to meet Mathieu's €20 million buyout clause to sign the Frenchman.
"I was surprised that Barça signed me, although I know that they were following me for two years. We're raring to play a game, even if it's a friendly. It's always special coming to France, my country, and doing so with a team like Barcelona is very significant.
"This is a huge club and I want to be a success here. I've felt really comfortable since my first day here, which is very important in terms of integration.
"I feel I'm up to the task of playing for Barça. It's true that there was criticism of my arrival. Being in the starting line-up would give me confidence and if I'm not in the team I'll have to keep on training hard to achieve that aim."
