Willian has revealed why he chose Arsenal out of other clubs angling for his services when it became obvious he was leaving Chelsea.

The 32-year-old’s preference was to remain at Stamford Bridge, but long negotiations over a new contract broke down as Willian was looking for a three-year commitment and Chelsea were only willing to offer two.

Arsenal were happy to meet Willian’s demands and the winger confirmed on Sunday in an open letter to fans that his seven years as a Blue had come to an end.

The Brazilian signed a three-year deal worth around £100,000-a-week to become Mikel Arteta’s first summer signing.

“I decided [to join] because Arsenal are one of the biggest clubs in the world. They have a new project with Mikel Arteta,” said Willian.

“I think this club deserve to shine again and I want to be a part of this project — to be a part of the Arsenal family is amazing. I’m very happy to do that.

“I come to try to win trophies, because this club deserve to win again, and I think you have to do the best as possible to win every game.

“[I like] the way they play, everything is amazing, the stadium, and I think that with Arteta, Arsenal have a great opportunity to fight again for titles in the Premier League and in Europe, so I’m very happy because of that.

“When I talked to [Mikel], the conversation was good, he gave me confidence to come to Arsenal. He said a lot of good things to me and that’s why I have come to Arsenal.”

Photo Credit: Twitter @ Arsenal