Reflecting on the contract standoff that ended his seven-year stay at Stamford Bridge, former Chelsea winger Willian has opened up on his decision to join Arsenal.
Chelsea famously hijacked Willian‘s move to Tottenham. And they’ll be glad they did, as the Brazilian became a legend due to his displays under multiple managers.
Over 339 appearances, he tallied 63 goals and 62 assists, helping the club secure two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and the 2019 Europa League.
Statistically, his most dominant individual campaign came in 2015/16, where he was named Chelsea’s Player of the Year after scoring several vital free-kicks during a turbulent season for the team.
And it’s now been revealed why Willian made the decision to leave Chelsea for Arsenal.
Quarter-final 3! Enzo Maresca or Roberto De Zerbi?
Share your thoughts below!
Roberto De Zerbi vs Enzo Maresca as next Chelsea manager
Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Willian claims Chelsea wouldn’t offer him a three-year deal
Willian gave an interview on HBO Max, where he opened up on the real reason why he decided to leave Chelsea for London rivals Arsenal.
“I wanted a three-year contract and Chelsea were only offering a two-year deal, so I ended up not renewing my contract.
“During those negotiations, Arsenal started showing interest. Many people say I should never have left Chelsea, family members as well.
“When I got there, it was a transition period, a lot of players left the club, others came in. I played during the pandemic as well, and that didn’t help. I couldn’t connect to the fans; the stadiums were empty.”
Settle the debate: What is Cole Palmer’s best position?
Join in the discussion down below!
England v Uruguay - International Friendly
Photo by Alex Davidson – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Willian’s farewell to Chelsea
It was clear that Willian didn’t want to leave Chelsea just by reading the message he sent to his teammates and players after announcing his departure.
“I am certainly going to miss my team-mates. I will miss all the staff at the club who’ve always treated me like a son and I will miss the fans.
“I leave with my head held high, safe in the knowledge that I won things here and always did my best in a Chelsea shirt. My heartfelt thanks go out to all of you and God bless you.”
And the regret was felt even more after a disastrous time at Arsenal.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox