RIO DE JANEIRO, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Emerson Royal said Tuesday he turned down offers from clubs in Europe to join Brazilian Serie A giants Flamengo from AC Milan.

The 26-year-old defender faced local media for the first time since signing with the Rio de Janeiro side on a deal that runs until December 2028.

"I had other proposals to stay in Europe. They said I would be going backwards in my career by coming here, but I think it's quite the opposite," Emerson told a news conference.

Flamengo reportedly agreed to pay nine million euros (10.4 million U.S. dollars) to release the defender, who had three years remaining on his Milan contract.

He confirmed that Turkiye's Besiktas was among other suitors but said he had no doubt about where he wanted to go.

"Everyone knows the size of Flamengo," Emerson said. "Without a doubt, what caught my attention was the squad, the great players and a great young manager [Filipe Luis]."

"The club has big plans and wants to win everything. I'm back in my home country, where I've always dreamed of showing what I'm capable of. And it's also my goal to return to Brazil's national team."

Emerson, who has 10 Brazil caps, has not played since February due to a calf injury but said he is ready to return to action.

"I'm 100% recovered," the right-back said. "Yes, I need time to adapt and improve my fitness but I have good genetics and know that I can regain sharpness quickly."

Emerson made 26 appearances across all competitions for AC Milan following his August 2024 move from Tottenham Hotspur.

He is the second signing for Flamengo since Brazil's mid-season transfer window opened on July 10, joining former Spain international midfielder Saul. ■