Moroccan defender Mehdi Benatia said on Sunday that joining Italy's AS Roma is a step forward in his career. The 26-year-old signed a five-year contract with Roma on Sunday after spending three seasons at Udinese, where he made 72 league appearances, scoring five goals. "I have arrived in Rome with the desire to win," Benatia said told a news conference on Sunday. "I chose to join this team because I want to do well. I did not know Garcia directly, but I know he did very well in France and has also come here with the desire to do well. "I am convinced that we will be okay next season. I came to Rome because I see it as a step forward for my career. I am proud to be here. "Udinesewas a perfect place to grow up and I want to thank the entire club," he added. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at@AO Sportsand on Facebook atAhramOnlineSports) http://english.ahram.org.eg/News/76484.aspx