Arsenal attacker Willian could be set to leave the club. The 33-year-old Brazilian could be about to make a return to his home country. According to Fabrizio Romano, Brazilian side Corinthians has made an official bid for Willian. It is now up to the former Brazil international whether or not to join the club.
After joining Arsenal last summer, the former Brazilian international is now a shadow of his former self. Recording just one goal in 37 matches for the Gunners, the Brazilian has fallen out of favour at The Emirates. It now seems that Arsenal are ready and willing to cut their losses just one year after signing the Brazilian.
Corinthians Launches Bid for Arsenal Attacker Willian
Brazilian Prefers to Remain in Europe
According to the report, one road block could be Willian’s desire to remain in Europe.
First making the move from Brazil to Europe back in the summer of 2007, the now 33-year-old has spent the last 14 years on the continent. Even more impressive is the fact that Willian has played Champions League football in all but three of those years.
Even in the years preceding his move to The Emirates, Willian was a regular in Chelsea’s Champions League squad. Over the course of his career, Willian has made a total of 75 appearances in the Champions League. On top of that total, the Brazilian has also made 45 appearances in other UEFA continental competitions. Given this impressive run, it’s understandable that the Brazilian would want to continue playing at the top level of European football.
Willian: A True Attacking Talent
On top of all of this is Willian’s extremely impressive domestic career. Willian began his European club career by scoring 37 goals and recording 63 assists at Shaktar Donetsk. Following a short spell with Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala, the Brazilian joined Premier League giants Chelsea.
Improving even more during his time in West London, Willian became one of the Blues’ most reliable players. During his near seven-year run with Chelsea, Willian made over 300 appearances for the Blues, scoring 63 times while adding 62 assists. During this time, he also went on to become a regular for the Brazilian national team.
Given Willian’s history of success, it seems certain that the Brazilian will attract some European interest. However, given the chance to return home to Brazil, the 33-year-old may choose to end his career at home with Corinthians.
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