Victor Valdes is already feeling at home as a Middlesbrough player due to the welcome he has received from Aitor Karanka and some of his Spanish speaking colleagues.
Valdes, 34, joined Boro on a free transfer from Manchester United, signing a two-year deal with the newly promoted side.
The former Barcelona goalkeeper said Karanka was a big factor in him making the move and hopes to get his career back on track following two frustrating seasons on the sidelines at Old Trafford.
"It's amazing and a big surprise for me. The first thing I've seen is it's a big group of good guys. The manager and my teammates have made it easy for me because he speaks Spanish," Valdes told Middlesbrough's official website.
"When you have a good atmosphere around you for the first days it's easier to feel comfortable on the pitch.
"I'm feeling good and step by step, day by day. I feel this is a good challenge for me in the Premier League and that's the main reason I signed here.
"The other main reason was the manager. Now I'm looking forward to starting with the first game against Stoke.
"I had dinner with the owner and he said to me that I will see in the stadium and around the Boro family that the fans will love me and I will love the fans, for sure.
"One of the most important things in the Premier League -- everywhere you go to play -- is the atmosphere from the fans. It's amazing."