While speaking to YouTube channel Desimpedidos, Chelsea’s Brazilian winger Willian has clarified that he wouldn’t have a problem moving to one of the Blues’ London rivals, if that he departs Stamford Bridge on a positive note. A report from Daily Star suggests that Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho is quite keen on bringing his former player to North London this summer and that the pair even share a special bond, having spent a bit of time together at Chelsea.
The Brazilian speedster then went on to heap the Portuguese manager with praises, although he conceded that Mourinho was yet to make contact in this regard. Willian said, “I did not get anything from Mourinho even though I have a good relationship with him. He is not only a great coach but also a great friend of mine. Sometimes we talk but regarding this situation, he totally respects it. I identified myself more with Mourinho. He trusted in my potential, liked my football, gave me full confidence to play. He is the best coach I have worked with.”
What Has Willian Achieved At Chelsea Over The Years?
The Brazilian is now one of the longest-serving members of the Blues’ first-team, and his departure from Stamford Bridge would surely be seen as the end of an era. The attacking trio of Willian, Pedro and Eden Hazard wreaked havoc in the English top-flight for years, and Frank Lampard is now attempting to do away with the old and reel in the new. Despite this, the gaffer was extremely cautious with his treatment of the older and more experienced players at the club, and it’s safe to say that Lampard’s approach has paid dividends this season.
Willian has won two Premier League titles since his move to Chelsea all those years ago. At the same time, he even earned his first major European trophy last season when the Blues beat Arsenal in the final of the Europa League. Now 31, the Brazilian just doesn’t boast the same level of explosiveness in the final third anymore, meaning that Lampard could be making the right decision with the club’s best interests in mind.
What Would Willian Add To Spurs Next Season?
The Lilywhites’ struggles with injuries this season have been no secret, and in Harry Kane’s absence, Jose Mourinho failed to find an able replacement to get them the goals. The likes of Heung-Min Son and Dele Alli were played in the winger’s position, but nothing seemed to be working owing to a lack of creativity from the wide areas. While the addition of Steven Bergwijn helped to a certain extent, they still weren’t nearly good enough. The acquisition of a dynamic winger like Willian could be the boost that Jose needs to challenge for Europe again next season convincingly.
Should Lampard Sanction This Sale In The Summer?
The West London club were one of the surprise packages of the league season since nobody expected this young Chelsea team to do anywhere near as well as they actually have. While Willian has obviously had his part to play along the way, the presence of names like Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi will make things easier on the manager.
Moreover, Mason Mount has been comfortable in that role this season, while Hakim Ziyech’s versatility allows him to be played anywhere across the front-line. There’s no denying that Willian has been a brilliant servant for Chelsea, but this summer could be the perfect time for the Blues to offload their 31-year-old winger.
