"I am very happy here, that's why I stayed in Pamplona. I have a close relationship with the club, with players and the fans,” Nekounam told reporters at a press conference on Friday.
“I will never forget the kindness of people and the support of the club when I was injured,” he added. “I owe it and that's why I want to be the best.”
The 29-year-old Iranian soccer star further asserted that he made the right decision to stay with Osasuna.
“I had options to go to another team and play Champions League. I could have gone in the summer, but after thought and consultation, I think I made the right decision to stay,” he explained.
"Osasuna have to get into Europe this year and I look forward to playing with Osasuna in Europe," he went on to say.
Nekounam was given a three-year contract extension until 2011 by Osasuna in November 2008 due to his strong performance and commitment to the Spanish club.
The Iranian star (called 'Neku' in Spain) was also chosen as Iran's best player of the year and was awarded the 'Golden Ball' by Iranian Football Officials in 2007.