Muniesa eager to start life at Stoke

Former Barcelona youngster Marc Muniesa is eager to start playing in the Premier League with Stoke.

The Catalan defender arrived at Stoke on a free transfer on Tuesday and was a member of the Spain squad that recently won the UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Muniesa is Hughes’ second signing after taking charge at the Britannia Stadium and the 21-year-old is delighted to be given a crack at the English top flight.

He told the club’s official website: “I never imagined I would get the chance to play in the Premier League, but when Stoke called me I decided to come here with my family to speak to them.

“All the people I’ve spoken have shown a lot of confidence in me and I’m really happy that everything has been sorted.

“I’m very happy to be here and to sign for this club. I’m very excited about playing in the Premier League with Stoke City.”

Muniesa also explained that, while he played regularly for Barcelona B, he was keen to try something different in a new country and take on a different challenge.

“I’ve always played with Barcelona but I want to try something different and with the support of my family and the people at Stoke and the fans, this will be a good experience for me,” he continued.

“My favourite position is central defender. I can also play at left back or in midfield but I feel better when I play centre-back.

“I hope to learn English and do my best for the team and the fans. I want to make them happy.”