Thursday 14 August 2014 10:32, UK
David Luiz believes Chelsea will rue letting him go and feels Frank Lampard also had 'lots to offer' the club.
Jose Mourinho decided to cash in on Luiz prior to the World Cup finals, with Paris Saint-Germain taking the distinctive centre-half in a £50million deal.
The 27-year-old has moved on after three productive years at Stamford Bridge that delivered FA Cup and UEFA Champions League triumphs.
I have to believe that Chelsea or any team will miss me. I’m not arrogant but I’m confident in my own abilities.
Luiz feels he played a leading role in those successes and is at a stage in his career where he is reaching is peak.
For that reason, he expects there to be some regrets when Chelsea reflect on the decision to do business with a European rival.
Luiz said in The Sun: “I have to believe that Chelsea or any team will miss me. I’m not arrogant but I’m confident in my own abilities.
“Paris paid a lot for me so they obviously believe in me – it is nice to be at a club where they really want you and where they show belief in you.”
Luiz has also expressed his surprise at seeing Chelsea allow vastly-experienced midfielder Lampard leave at the end of his contract – freeing him to sign for New York City and join their sister club Manchester City on loan.
I can only speak about my experience of playing with Frank and I still think he has lots to offer at the highest level.
He added: “I can only speak about my experience of playing with Frank and I still think he has lots to offer at the highest level.
“Not just because he is a great player, but also because of his experience in big games.”
As he prepares to take on a new challenge in France, Luiz is convinced that in joining PSG he has linked up with a club that is capable of challenging for major prizes at home and abroad.
He said: “I have good memories of Chelsea. I won the Champions League.
“I hope it’s not my only victory. I believe I can win it again with Paris.
“I have as much chance of winning major trophies here as at Chelsea or any other club in Europe.”
