Alan Kardec of Brazil’s Sao Paulo (right) fights for the ball with Osbaldo Lastra of Ecuador’s Ecuador Emelec during a Copa Sudamericana soccer match in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Nov 5, 2014. (DOLORES OCHOA / AP)

BELO HORIZONTE - Striker Alan Kardec has expressed gratitude for his time in the Chinese Super League as he prepares for the next stage of his career with Brazil's Atletico Mineiro.

Kardec was officially presented to local media on Wednesday after joining the reigning Brazilian Serie A champions on a contract that runs until December 2024.

My experience in China was very positive. It was a place where I managed to look after my mind and my body while enjoying the moments I spent there.

Alan Kardec, striker

"My experience in China was very positive," the 33-year-old said. "It was a place where I managed to look after my mind and my body while enjoying the moments I spent there.

"Now I have a new challenge. I know the level that's expected of me here, and I'm aware that it is a winning group with great players that will fight for titles. The expectations are high."

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Kardec's return to Brazil comes almost six years after he left Sao Paulo to join Chongqing Lifan. He made 108 appearances for the now-defunct club before signing with Shenzhen FC, where he netted 12 times in 19 matches.

The former Brazil U-20 international will be unable to make his debut for Atletico until July 18, when Brazil's international transfer window reopens.

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The Belo Horizonte outfit are currently third in Brazil's Serie A standings with 27 points from 15 matches, two points behind leaders Palmeiras.