The deal between PAOK FC and Răzvan Raț has been finalized, with the player penning a two-year contract with the club. The Romanian international defender will join the squad as they leave for their main preparation stage in the Netherlands.

Right after signing the deal, Răzvan Raț attended paokfc.gr for his first statements as a PAOK player:

-Congratulations. After so many days on hold, you became officially a player of PAOK. Share with us your first impressions.

I am happy to have signed the contract. For years now I have been competing at a high level and PAOK share the same ambitions. I know that my new club and their owner have set their sights high, that PAOK always star on the domestic front and are regulars in European competitions. I aim to go even further with them.

-Who provided you with your first pieces of info about PAOK?

I have always been in contact with Costin Lazăr and he has been talking to me about the club and the atmosphere here. I watched some matches of PAOK as he got me interested. I didn’t have to gather much info, as PAOK are renowned in Europe from their consecutive participations in the continental competitions.

-Do you remember playing for Shakhtar Donetsk against PAOK?

Of course! I may not remember every player who was playing for PAOK back then, but I remember the match itself.

-What do you know about PAOK now?

I would be lying if I suggested I knew things about their history from the ‘50s or ‘60s. I do know however their contemporary history, their last titles, their success in Europe. I know all about the fans and I hope that they will accept and love me!

– What is your first impression from the city, the stadium, the fans?

I have been together with the club president these past days and he showed me the stadium, but it was empty. I can’t wait to see it full of our fans, it will be much better! I knew Thessaloniki well and I already know how friendly and hospitable Greek people are!