Wednesday 8 October 2014 11:35, UK
David Luiz has revealed that he turned down a contract extension at Chelsea in favour of signing for Paris Saint-Germain.
The Brazil international departed Stamford Bridge over the summer in a £50million transfer – a record deal for a defender.
The 27-year-old had spent three-and-a-half years in west London, during which time he tasted FA Cup, Europa League and UEFA Champions League glory.
Speculation suggesting that his days in England may be numbered started from the moment Jose Mourinho returned to the Chelsea dugout.
Luiz was, however, a regular under the Portuguese and says a desire to keep him at the Premier League leaders was expressed.
An agreement was reached with PSG, though, prior to the 2014 World Cup and the ball-playing centre-half believes the switch has suited all parties.
Luiz told Globo Esporte: “Chelsea offered me a new contract to stay but it was my choice to come here.
“I was happy with the plan PSG offered to me and I think it was exactly the right moment to move.
“I was so happy at Chelsea – I won two titles, I won another title for the FA Cup, so it was great for me.
“I’m a lucky guy. I was playing for a big club in Chelsea and now I’ve got another opportunity to play for a big club.”
He added: “I made my choice and I’m happy with my choice. I’m happy to see my friends at Chelsea playing well, and I’m happy to be here.
“They’ve been doing very well for many, many years. It’s important to finish well, not just the beginning.”
