After failing to sign a new contract, Willian has left Chelsea on a free with Arsenal the likely destination. The Brazillian, though often in the shadow of more popular stars, leaves behind a legacy filled with achievements at Stamford Bridge.
Willian Leaves Chelsea After Seven Year Stay
Willian Pulled the Strings for Chelsea Behind Hazard’s Spotlight
He was never the man in the spotlight in blue, he was often in the shadow of Eden Hazard’s glimmer; but, it soon became apparent that, no matter what, Chelsea could rely on Willian. If Eden Hazard had an off day or even an off-season like he did in 2015, Willian was always the next in line to step up. In that 2015/16 season, it was the Brazilian who outshone Hazard and really cemented a long term place at Stamford Bridge.
Despite Chelsea’s tenth-place finish, Willian recorded a total of 21 goal involvements to win the club’s Player of the Year award. Since that campaign, he has never failed to reach double figures for goal involvements, helping guide Chelsea to two Premier League titles.
Even when Hazard waved goodbye in favour of a dream Real Madrid move, Willian’s influence didn’t stop. Instead, it grew. He took to centre stage at the age of 32 and was once again seen playing the role of Mr. Reliable. In the season just gone, the Brazilian netted 11 goals alongside nine assists to take Chelsea to a top-four finish. Off the pitch, too, his experience and guidance would have undoubtedly influenced and improved the likes of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Tammy Abraham.
Plenty Left in the Tank
If last season is anything to go by, at the age of 32, Willian still has plenty left in the tank. The now-former Chelsea man has shown no signs of slowing down or tiring and will prove to be the bargain of the summer for Arsenal if they manage to complete a deal. With the transfer of Willian, Arsenal are getting an experienced winner capable of guiding the many young players in their squad, while still possessing the ability to be a star player at the Emirates.
The transfer could take Arsenal to the extra step needed to once again reach the holy grail of Champions League football. By securing the deal, the Gunners will follow in the footsteps of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, too, who underwent the transformation Arsenal currently desire. Instead of Willian, however, it was James Milner who came in on a free deal to add that much-needed experience and winning mentality.
If Mikel Arteta can replicate James Milner’s role of guidance at Liverpool with Willian, David Luiz, and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang, then the Arsenal youngsters will only continue to prosper.
Willian’s Name Cemented into the Chelsea History Books No Matter What
Since arriving in West London for a move to Chelsea, Willian has picked up five trophies, scored 63 goals and assisted a further 62. With those honours, the Brazilian is cemented into the Chelsea history books alongside the likes of Eden Hazard.
The limelight may never have shined bright enough at times during his Chelsea career, but Willian’s legacy will not be lost on those at Stamford Bridge.
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