Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa believes he is returning to France as a more complete player after completing his move from Roma to Lyon.
The defender was presented as a Lyon player on Monday, returning to Ligue 1 two years after leaving Montpellier for Newcastle.
"I did not expect to come to Lyon, I thought it was only a rumour," the 26-year-old said on the club's website. "But the president and the coach have convinced me and I'm glad to be part of the Lyon project and I will give 100 percent to help the team.
"In England I discovered more about the physical side of the game and individual preparation. In Rome, I learned much from [Rudi Garcia, Roma coach]. In Italy, everything is very tactical."
Yanga-Mbiwa, capped four times, is hoping playing in Ligue 1 can help his international chances with Euro 2016 on the horizon.
"The first goal is a great season in all competitions with Lyon," he said. "After that, why not the Euros?"
Yanga-Mbiwa came through the ranks at Montpellier and made 122 appearances, winning Ligue 1 in 2012, before moving to Newcastle in 2013.
After 46 games in England, he headed to Roma where he played 38 times last season.
Lyon have reportedly paid €8 million (£5.7m) to bring him back to France, with up to €2m (£1.4m) due in bonuses.
"This is a significant investment which shows the club's ambition," said club president Jean-Michel Aulas. "We followed him when he was with Montpellier but were not able to do anything when he left for Newcastle.
"His arrival demonstrates our desire to be as competitive as possible."