The 32-year-old attacking midfielder was quoted by the Zaman daily on Saturday as saying that he intends to play for three or four more years, hinting that he may seek greener pastures when his contract expires in 2014.

“I have faith in myself and my [football] performance,” declared Emre, who began his impressive career with Galatasaray (1996-2001), before moving to Italian Serie A's Inter Milan (2001-2005), English Premier League side Newcastle United (2005-2008) and then Fenerbahçe (2008-2012).

“I can still perform comfortably at the top level for three or four more years. And as I have always done, I will give my all [to Atletico]. I worked very hard in my previous teams and I am sure that's why Atletico Madrid acquired me,” he noted.

"Now I have a two-year contract with my new club. I don't know what will happen after two years. But what I do know is that Atletico will not be my last stop,” he asserted.

Emre also thanked his former club and fans for the affection they showed him. “I always want to be remembered as a ‘former Fenerbahçe [and not Galatasaray]' player,” he stated.

At Atletico Madrid, Emre will join former Galatasaray captain-playmaker Arda Turan, who moved to La Liga last season.

And Arda was mightily happy when the news on Emre's transfer broke out. “Emre has everything he needs to triumph at Atletico. He has shown personality in taking the reins at major clubs and his experience can help us a great deal,” he said.