Chelsea’s attacking midfielder Willian has rejected Manchester United’s offer and pledged his commitment to Stamford Bridge.
According to a report by The Sun, Chelsea’s Brazilian midfielder Willian has rejected a bid to move to Manchester United, and chosen to continue playing for Premier League champions Chelsea instead.
Manchester United were reported to be very keen on signing Willian, especially since his former boss Jose Mourinho is a huge admirer of the player. It did seem like the deal might go through considering how the Brazilian struggled for game time under Antonio Conte.
In fact, it was Jose Mourinho who brought the Brazil international to Stamford Bridge way back in 2013 and he was one of the very few positives from Mourinho’s disastrous final few months in charge at Chelsea last season.
Willian even scored seven goals by the time it was Mourinho’s turn to bid adieu to Stamford Bridge, and he was reckoned as one of the strongest Chelsea players.
While he did struggle to get enough chances this season, he also been impressive during the few chances he did get. For example, he came off the bench to aid Chelsea in sealing the Premier League title at West Brom last Friday even as they have two more games to spare.
Despite that, his overall influence on Chelsea has diminished and he could start only in 13 league games this season when compared to the 32 appearances of the previous season. Regardless, Willian still wants to stay loyal to Stamford Bridge.
When Chelsea picked up the title in 2015, Willian played a key role and was very influential even during the period when Mourinho got sacked.
However, ever since Conte took over and switched to the 3-4-3 formation, Pedro and Eden Hazard’s form has skyrocketed, leaving little scope for Willian.
Although he has not played much this season, it should still come as good news to Chelsea, while Jose Mourinho might have to re-think his midfield options as the transfer window looms closer.
Meanwhile, Willian’s Chelsea team-mate Thibaut Courtois has also stressed upon his desire to remain with Chelsea even as there are strong rumours of him being prime target for Spanish giants Real Madrid.