Faycal Rherras was sold on a move to Hearts after hearing about the first-team’s spirit. The Belgian-born Moroccan defender has agreed a three-year contract earlier this week and is already settling into life in Edinburgh thanks to his welcoming teammates, and in particular Arnaud Djoum. Rherras said: "Of course, I’m happy to be here. I heard a lot of good things about this club, that it is like a family club. I’m just very happy to be here. For sure, it’s easier when you come to another country and you don’t really speak the language that you have someone who can help you. I’m happy that Arnaud is here and I will try to learn the language as quickly as possible."
Rherras is looking forward to the prospect of playing in the Scottish Premiership and Europe with his new club. Like many who come to Scottish clubs, he would like to play at the top level in England one day. However, for now he’s focused on improving both himself and the team at Tynecastle. He went on: "I’ve heard good things about the competition in Scotland. My dream is to play in England, and I know that in Scotland the league is similar in physicality and the style of football that is played in England. This move is a chance for me to do well and adapt to those characteristics, and to one day achieve my dream of playing football. That’s why it is positive to come here and play well. Of course, for every player it is good to play in Europe. The Europa League is a very good competition and now I have the chance to play in it, which makes me very happy. I hope that we will qualify for the group stages. Every footballer knows that they have competition for their position. I am ready, I know that I have the capacity to help the team play better. I’m not scared about it, I’ll give my all and Robbie Neilson will make the decision on who is going to play."