Gravesen unable to turn down Real

Denmark international Thomas Gravesen says his decision to leave Everton midway through the season was not easy but that he could not turn down a "once in a lifetime opportunity" to join Real Madrid.

Gravesen left the English Premier League to join Real on a 3-1/2-year deal for a reported fee of 3.5 million euros ($4.6 million) on Friday.

"Of course it's very difficult when a chance like this comes along," the 28-year-old midfielder told a news conference in Madrid on Saturday.

"I was having a marvellous season at Everton, but I think that I made the right choice in coming here. A chance like this only comes along once in a lifetime. This is the biggest challenge of my career."

Gravesen said Everton manager David Moyes tried to persuade him to stay and see his contract out to the end of the season, but the Scot realised he could not stand in his way.

"We spoke a lot about my future and of course he tried to ask me to stay," he said. "But he understood my situation and was quite positive and tried to help me. He obviously wanted to do what was best for the club."

Gravesen acknowledged he may not have the reputation of some of the Real's high-profile "galacticos" but said he could still win a place in the centre of midfield alongside either Guti or David Beckham.

"I don't know if I'll be up against Guti or Beckham to get a place in the team. I'm here to be part of the team and I'm not here to make war with anyone," he said.

"I don't see it as a battle, I'm just here to further my career and I will get my chance because there will be a lot of games."

The Dane was included in the squad for the league match against Real Zaragoza on Sunday but coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo said Gravesen would not be in the starting line up despite the absence of Guti with 'flu.

"He's only just joined the club and will have to wait his chance," said the Brazilian. "But I like the way he plays and his enthusiasm."