A Brazilian star who clinched two Premier League titles with Chelsea has admitted he regretted joining Arsenal, revealing he begged to leave just three months after signing.
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Willian, known for his stellar seven-year stint at Stamford Bridge, was a vital cog in Chelsea’s success, netting double-digit goals in four seasons and lifting the FA Cup, League Cup, and Europa League alongside his league triumphs.
When his Chelsea contract ended in 2020, Arsenal swooped in with a lucrative three-year deal, outbidding the Blues and luring the winger to the Emirates Stadium.
Despite becoming one of Arsenal’s highest earners, Willian failed to find his footing at the North London club.
Just a year into his contract, he terminated the deal, walking away from millions. Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel, Willian described his Arsenal tenure as the “worst time” of his career.
“I wasn’t happy,” he admitted. “When I arrived, I was motivated and excited about the new project. But after three months, I told my agent, ‘I want out.’
Arsenal is a big club with a rich history, but it just didn’t work for me. I couldn’t stay just for the money; happiness and passion matter more.”
His bold decision to forgo millions in wages earned praise, with Willian choosing to prioritize his well-being over financial gain.
After leaving Arsenal, he returned to Corinthians before making a Premier League comeback with Fulham and later joining Olympiacos.
In a reflective moment during an interview with Sky Sports, Willian confessed, “I wish I’d never left Chelsea. Looking back, I realize it wasn’t the right move for me, but that’s life.”
Willian’s tale is a stark reminder that even in football, money doesn’t guarantee happiness, and finding the right fit matters most.
