Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba arrived to a hero's welcome in China on Saturday, as he was officially unveiled as a Shanghai Shenhua player.
Drogba, who bowed out at the London club by scoring the winning penalty in the Champions' League final in May, spoke of his excitement at starting the newest phase of his career, and denied that this somewhat unexpected move was not motivated by his near £200,000 a week contract.
"I am looking forward to a new challenge and to experiencing a new culture, and I am excited about the new developments in the Chinese Super League," the Ivory Coast striker said.
Drogba arrived in Shanghai to adoring crowds
"I (also) hope to help promote Chinese football around the world and further improve the links between China and Africa."
Drogba has his own charitable foundation and hopes to boost the relationship between African countries and China through playing in the country.
He joins former strike partner Nicolas Anelka, who temporarily managed the club last season before Argentine manager Sergio Batistuta took over.
Drogba signed off an a legendary Chelsea career by scoring the winning penalty against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final
"The high-level world-class players and coaches will be able to provide a learning opportunity to our domestic players and coaches," CFA spokesman Dong Hua told AFP.
"I hope our coaches and players can improve through this exchange and enhance the level of Chinese football as a whole."
Drogba scored 157 goals in 341 appearances at Chelsea, having signed from Marseille for £24m in 2004.