Luiz says goodbye to PSG teammates

Paris, Sep 7 (IANS) A week after returning to Chelsea, Brazil centre-back David Luiz said goodbye to his former club Paris Saint-Germain teammates a week after the defender completed his transfer.

The 29-year old left the French capital on transfer deadline day, sealing a return to Stamford Bridge for around £35 million.

With Luiz not in action with the South American nation over the international break, the defender was able to take some time to return to PSG's Camp des Loges headquarters to bid farewell to his former teammates who were not on international duty.

The French champions published a video message (in French) from the former Benfica player, addressing the fans, as well as some highlights of his final moments with the PSG players as they prepared for Friday's clash with Saint-Etienne.

Since leaving PSG, Luiz has had to refute claims via social media that he spoke in derogatory terms about the reigning French champions and Ligue 1 -- the top division of French football -- as soon as he arrived back in England.

The volatile Brazilian took the opportunity to clarify one last time that he never denigrated his former club or the French league and leaves with plenty of fond memories.

"I'd like to thank everyone at PSG and in France. I had a wonderful two years here. I really enjoyed myself," Luiz told PSG's official's website.

"I love this country, even though people often try to get me to say mean things about France and Ligue 1. It's not true! I have only given one interview since my departure, and that was when I was presented to the press at Chelsea," he added.

"From my arrival in Paris to my departure, I always did my best to respect everyone. I respect everyone at PSG, in Paris and in France. I leave here with a lot of fantastic memories. Thanks to everyone and make the most of your life."

Although he was not always at his best on the pitch, nobody connected with PSG will have a bad word to say about David Luiz the person.

--IANS

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