Former Lazio defender Luiz Felipe is excited to have joined Real Betis.

The Brazilian was presented to the local media today.

Felipe said: "When I learned that Betis wanted me, I didn't think twice. It was the best thing in my life.

"I always liked (Carles) Puyol very much, for his aggressive, tough way of playing. And also Sergio Ramos, for me the best in history. I had several clubs interested, but I had only Betis in mind and I really wanted to come here, meet my new teammates and start working.

"(Manuel) Pellegrini welcomed me very well. I know the importance of this city and this club. I know the stadium and its size, I know that there are always 60,000 people in the stands to see the matches. I know the league and I wanted to play here, this is also why I am here.

"I spent 5 years at Lazio, I played 140 games, I have grown a lot as a person and as a player and yes, I think I am in the best phase of my career."