Culture lures Anelka to Asia

Nicolas Anelka says the unique culture of Asia is what persuaded him to join Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua.

Anelka signed for Shenhua following a successful career in Europe playing for likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal and Chelsea, and the former France international said he is relishing the opportunity to play in China.

“It is my first time to Shanghai but I know the city is named the ‘Oriental Paris’,” Anelka told Fifa.com.

“Friends who have been there told me it is a magnificent city and I am looking forward to seeing it.”

“I’ve always had fond feelings about Asia. I have been obsessed with the local cultures during my previous trips to the likes of Korea Republic, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and Chinese Hong Kong and Macau.”

“So I jumped at the chance when Shanghai came to me with an offer.”

Anelka moved to Shenhua after four season with English Premier League club Chelsea, where he scored 59 goals in 182 appearances.