Arsenal defender David Luiz says an honest conversation with Frank Lampard paved the way for an amicable departure on transfer deadline day.
The Brazilian joined the Gunners in an £8m deal despite signing a new contract at Stamford Bridge in May. Luiz says he and Lampard had a difference in vision, which resulted in his move across London.
“It is a new challenge in my career, where I took the decision to fight for new things, and I enjoyed it in the best way possible,” he told ESPN Brasil.
“In talks with Frank he said he had a different plan for the year. So we spoke in total honesty, and he made it clear that he had different ideas from mine.
“So I had this opportunity, to receive an offer from Arsenal, which is a great club. I still respect Chelsea. It’s never easy for people to understand everything that goes through.
“But my decision was also to respect Chelsea and their new manager, who wanted to implement a different philosophy at the club. So I decided to get on this new journey, a new home, where I’ll do everything to shine as well.”