Image Credit: Josep Lago / Getty Images
Pedro has spoken out about the reasons behind his transfer to Chelsea, saying that although Manchester United had also wanted to sign him, his decision ultimately rested upon the London outfit having “showed the most interest”.
The former Barcelona forward has now signed a £21 million deal to make the move to Stamford Bridge, after reports circulated that he would instead by joining Man U at Old Trafford. The transfer has now been one of the most heavily discussed during this transfer window, with many believing that Man U dropped the ball in failing to sign the striker.
With Louis van Gaal repeatedly facing questioning over why Pedro hasn’t made his way to Old Trafford, Pedro has now cleared up the reasons behind him having left La Liga for Chelsea, saying at a press conference held today: “I was very flattered by the interest from some of England’s biggest clubs, like United and City, but Chelsea were the team that could resolve the situation the quickest and who showed the most interest in me.”
Louis van Gaal has been accused of dropping the ball with Pedro’s transfer. (Photo: John Peters / Getty Images)
Pedro acknowledged that there was a risk in him joining Chelsea, continuing: “It was not about money. It was the need to play consistently,” he told assembled reporters at his farewell press conference in Barcelona. I’m sad in a way, to be leaving. There was an option to stay, that’s what the club wanted. I discussed it with everyone but the Chelsea offer attracted me.
“The easiest thing would have been to stay, it’s a difficult decision. I am taking a risk but I am decided. Barcelona is the best club in the world, there’s no other place like this. But I’ve joined a club I like and where I will play more. Last season was one of my worst, because there was a lot of competition and I didn’t have enough playing time.
He concluded: “I’m ambitious and I knew it would be difficult to have a lot playing time here. I’m happy to have this new challenge.”
Pedro made a great first impression with his new club after scoring a goal and assisting in another in Chelsea’s 3-2 victory against West Brom. On the other hand, Manchester United are struggling attack after a couple of lackluster performances, with fans clamouring for a new option up front as Wayne Rooney continues to struggle to find form in the early portion of the season.
[Via Goal.com]
