Willian only has six-months remaining on his contract with Chelsea. It’s looking increasingly likely a new deal will not be forthcoming for the winger.
During his time with the Blues, Willian has played a key part in winning silverware. During his six-and-a-half years at Stamford Bridge, the 31-year-old has won two premier titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and the Europa League.
His £30m move in August 2013 was a move that shaped him as a person. Speaking exclusively to the players tribune, Willian revealed his feelings about his time at Stamford Bridge, and what he wants from the future. He said:
“Since I joined Chelsea, a lot has happened that has shaped my character.”
The 31-year-old is very proud of the rapport he has with the Blues support.
“I have also had many happy moments at Chelsea. The fans have treated me well from Day One. When they sing my name, I feel happy and proud. They give me confidence, and I have always tried to return their love for me on the pitch.”
Willian was particularly close to the man who will be sat in the opposition dugout on Saturday, Jose Mourinho.
“People ask me about the best coaches I have had. For sure, Mourinho is one of them. We had a special relationship. He demanded a lot, so there were some conflicts, but that’s normal. He would challenge me and call out my mistakes, but if I had played well he would also say something like, “Today you killed it.” I loved his man management, how he organised training, how he spoke in meetings. I learned a lot from him.”
The Brazil international admitted Mourinho wanted to take him to Manchester United when he was boss at Old Trafford
“When he was at Manchester United he wanted me to go there. And the way in which he made that clear was always respectful.”
The winger also has a good relationship with Frank Lampard.
“I also feel very good playing for Frank Lampard. It was a privilege to play with him — you all know how great a player he was — and as a coach I feel that he likes me a lot. I like him a lot, too. I really enjoy the way he is doing things. He cares about his players. His man management is excellent.”
Willian has no doubt where he, and his family want to live.
“If you ask my wife if she wants to leave London, she’ll say no. My daughters feel the same way, London is my second home.”
The Brazilian now has UK citizenship, after passing a test. He revealed the effort it took.
“I recently passed a British citizenship test. ! I bought this handbook called Life in the UK Test, which covers everything in the exam. I don’t know how many hours I spent reading it. I also downloaded a phone app with mock tests. As it turned out, I failed on my first two attempts, but got it on the third. I am now a British citizen.”
There’s no doubt that Willian would love to stay at Chelsea for the sake of his family. He added:
“So London is where I want to stay. This is where I have my family, my church. I want my daughters to grow up here. Whenever I get back to the dressing room, I want to keep seeing their messages. I want to keep hearing their love and encouragement.”
Willian is a great character, but is he still good enough? He offers a lot at times, but drifts massively in and out of form. The relationship with Lampard could yet see a new deal appearing before the summer. He certainly has the desire to stay at Stamford Bridge.
