13.08.2009, 11:39
Christina Rhode in Itxako

The Spanish complete their puzzle and prepare for the CL with a strong team.

Christina Rhode in Itxako

The German international right back, Christina Rhode, will join the Spanish champion Itcako this season. The 27-year old arrives from Nurnberg.

This signing was the last piece in the puzzle that completes Itxako for the challenge of the new season. The Spanish side will take part in the Champions League for the first time.

The German player will replace the Romanian Cris Mihai who left the Spanish club last summer. The great performance of Rhode in the last edition of the CL impressed the Itxako management.

Itxako hope that Rhode can help in attack and in defence as well. Her 1,8 meters can be used well in the centre of a 6-0 defence. Coach Ambros Martin wants to keep a high level in defence that characterised the squad last season . The former FCN player won Challenge Cup in 2004 and German title in 2005, 2007 and 2008.

Rodhe was happy as she arrived in Spain.

“I’m very motivated to return to the Champions League with a competitive team. All players are equally important in Itxako. Not only two or three players can be decisive, but they all contribute in attack and defence as well,” explained Rhode during her official presentation in Itxako.

The experienced handballer knows that the language will be a problem at the beginning.

“I think I will adapt soon. I watched the EHF Cup final with great interest because Nurnberg and Leipzig are rivals. My objective is to win Spanish title and cause a nice surprise in the Champions League”.

TEXT: Fernando Urra Goni