David Luiz: Why I left Chelsea FC to sign for Arsenal
David Luiz opens up on his decision to sign for Arsenal from Chelsea FC this summer
David Luiz says that the prospect of a new challenge was one of the main reasons why he decided to leave Chelsea FC and sign for Arsenal on deadline day.
The 32-year-old completed a move across London to link up with Unai Emery’s side as the Spaniard moved to bolster his defensive options at The Emirates.
Arsenal were incredibly busy in the summer transfer market as they tied up deals for David Luiz, as well as Nicolas Pepe, Gabriel Martinelli, William Saliba, Kieran Tierney – and Dani Ceballos on loan from Real Madrid.
David Luiz will wear the number 23 shirt at Arsenal and joins the Gunners with 524 club appearances under his belt spanning a 13-year career.
And the Brazil international has now lifted the lid on his decision to leave Chelsea FC and move to Arsenal this summer.
Speaking in an interview with Arsenal’s website, David Luiz said: “The cycle [at Chelsea FC] finished there. It was a conversation between me and Chelsea and everybody.
“I had an opportunity to come to another big club. In my life, I’ve always liked to do some challenges. I’m not scared at all to try things.
“I think not too many players would make this kind of move, they would maybe be scared, or something like that.
“I’m just trying to do big things in my life, so like I said, my cycle at Chelsea finished and now I’m excited to start a new chapter of my life here.”
He added: “It’s a great feeling. It’s a new cycle in my life, in my career as a footballer. I’m excited to play for this big club.
“I grew up watching a lot of Arsenal games, especially the great players from the past, so I’m excited to try to help this club to do some big things.”
Arsenal will kick off their Premier League campaign when they travel to Newcastle United in the top flight on Sunday afternoon.
The Gunners are aiming to try and break back into the top four this term after they finished fifth and without a trophy last season.
