Thiago Silva has claimed to ESPN Brazil that he tried to convince Chelsea to sign Willian after he left Arsenal in 2021.
The Brazilian left the Blues in 2020 after what had been an extremely successful career at Stamford Bridge.
He has enjoyed a revival of sorts this season too. Just as his career looked set to be winding down, he has been starring again in the European places of the Premier League.
No one knows this better than Chelsea. Willian scored the opener in the 2-1 victory for Fulham last month.
The game was overshadowed as far as the Blues are concerned by the debut of Joao Felix. The 23-year-old impressed for an hour before being sent off.
As for Willian’s ability, it appears as if Silva was already aware he had plenty more to give. He has claimed that he wanted him to return to Stamford Bridge in 2021.
Thiago Silva wanted Willian at Chelsea
He said: “Willian is special, I have a special affection for this kid. Out of the loop as a person and a player. Before he left for Corinthians , I tried to repatriate him, but unfortunately things didn’t work out, they didn’t work. I knew he was a very important player.
“In the first round game, he scored a goal against us, he is having important performances with Fulham. I hope that Friday he can be more relaxed.”
The Blues will be looking to shut him down tonight as they look to return to winning ways in the Premier League.
The match may see a number of debuts handed out after a busy January transfer window.
Enzo Fernandez, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke will all be pushing to make their first starts for their new club.
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